COVID-19 Business Safety and Security Checklist 2020
- Remove all valuables from storefront displays and any that may be visible looking in your windows.
- Remove all cash from tills and leave open with the cash tray out and visibly empty. Consider moving cash register completely out of view of windows to be a further deterrent.
- Avoid doing after hours bank drops if possible and when they are done, do them at different times so that there is no pattern for people to recognize.
- Ensure alarm systems are working and all contact lists are up to date. Consider adding a trusted secondary alarm contact in case you need to go to the site but are unable to leave your home.
- Post on doors/windows that the premises are monitored by an alarm company and that no money is kept on the premises. Include the 1-888-310-1122 non-emergency number or call 911 should anyone notice a break-in or damage. Also add wording stating that you have security cameras even if you don’t.
- Clean all windows and floors before leaving and note when you've done it (have a log) as this will help investigators should there be a break-in. Also, clean door handles and any other touch surfaces as if you’d have to if you were still open.
- Consider a surveillance system which can be monitored remotely by phone/online. Ensure that cameras are installed at entry points (windows and doors) and in high traffic areas that would be used to walk through the space (hallways, shop floors etc.).
- Consider putting a laminate on all windows/glass to discourage and help prevent easy entry.
- Keep some lighting on inside to help with video surveillance and consider lighting on timers if possible.
- Ensure all doors and windows are locked and secure.
- Ensure all exterior lighting is functioning and on — consider motion sensor lights as another option.
- Remove anything on the exterior which could be used to gain entry to your premises (bricks, ladders, poles, construction materials).
- Regularly check the building and keep track of when you do (have a log) but go at different times. Ensure that you go inside to check that nothing has happened inside the premises (flooding, unknown damage etc.).
- Contact your insurance company about your policy to make sure that they don’t have any specific requirements to ensure that your policy remains valid such as: leaving the lights on, shutting off the water, keeping the heat on and regularly checking the premises (record visits using a log).
- Ensure that if you have employees still working, that you have a protocol for getting them home if they don’t feel safe leaving alone (a ride is waiting for when they leave, they’re parked in a secure well lit area or they only work during daylight hours etc.).
- If you’re working alone, be aware of what’s happening outside or around you. If you see any suspicious activity report it to police.
- Create and post emergency contact list for employees including 911, non-emergency police numbers, management or owners numbers.
- If you must work from your premises, consider only working during the daylight hours.
- Create an emergency call chain. Have each person on your call chain be responsible for calling one other person in the event of an emergency. This will ensure that notifying others does not fall to one person who may not be able to make multiple calls.
Thank you to Old Town Kemptville BIA for sharing this great checklist.