Unfortunately, you have to consider the risk of a break-in at your small business, whether it’s a home-based business or a stand-alone property. Some businesses face higher risks than others, and some areas are higher risk than others, but even if you believe your risk is very low, someone could still break in.
Locks are your first line of defense; security cameras and systems can further boost your protection, and insurance coverage can give you peace of mind knowing that if someone does break in, you can recover.
Lock Your Building
This step is foundational to small business safety. It’s so basic, you may wonder why it is even mentioned. Surprisingly, even though everyone knows to do it, it often gets forgotten. Sometimes even huge companies forget to lock up, and sometimes small business owners do, too.
In addition to remembering to use your locks, make sure they’re appropriately substantial. You may need window locks, and you may even need to install bars or a sliding gate for added protection.
Not all of these precautions are warranted everywhere. Locks are necessary for every business, but bars and shutters may only be needed for higher-risk locations.
Install Security Cameras
Security cameras are important for every business. They’re not very expensive, and they can help you identify individuals who do break in.
Your least expensive option is to install cameras yourself and monitor the cameras through your app. Many systems let you connect them to a hard drive so you can review footage if needed.
If your risk is higher, you may want to take your security system a step higher and opt for a professional monitoring service. With a home monitoring service, you pay professionals to monitor security alarms around the clock and alert authorities when warranted.
Some businesses may even need on-site security, but most small businesses don’t need to take this expensive step. Security cameras should be part of your overall security toolkit.
Get Insurance Just In Case
If you lock up, install cameras, and hire professional monitoring, you may never experience a break-in. But even with the most comprehensive precautions, risk remains. If you have a property insurance policy, you’ll have recourse to rebuild if someone breaks in and steals or damages your property.
Insurance can help you rebuild after physical damage and losses, but it can also protect you against liability, cybersecurity risks, wage loss, and more. There are so many options, and an insurance agent can help you review your risks and choose the options that make sense for you.
You can even get commercial car insurance if you use vehicles to conduct your business. Health insurance is another option you may want to provide for your employees. There’s an insurance policy for nearly any risk you can think of.
Insurance is a necessity and shouldn’t be a “just in case” afterthought, but hopefully you will not need to file a claim. If you do file a claim, you’ll see exactly how your premiums are worth it.
Comments