How Can I Keep My Restaurant Safe From Burglars And Intruders?
As a restaurant owner, you've invested time and money in your business. You want to see it thrive, and you also want to keep it safe from burglars and intruders. Crime itself may be something you have little control over, but there are things you can do to protect your business and employees from crime's effects. Here are a few tips for keeping your restaurant free from robberies and break-ins:
1. Install a safe.
If your business routinely handles large amounts of cash, a trustworthy safe is a necessity. Purchase a safe that is burglar-resistant, such as a TL-15 rated safe. According to Consumer Reports, TL-15 rated safes are guaranteed to remain secure for up to 15 minutes while burglars attempt to open it using common safe-opening tools. A locksmith can help you bolt the safe to the floor, preventing thieves from carrying it away. You may want to also consider fire-resistance, since fires can be an ever-present threat in restaurant kitchens.
2. Never keep large amounts of cash in the register.
Now that you have an excellent safe, make sure that your employees are trained to make good use of it. Don't keep more money in the cash register than is necessary for transactions. Implement a company policy to make "cash drops" into the safe at regular intervals throughout the day. If you follow this procedure, there will be less money for thieves to take in the unfortunate event of a robbery.
3. Install double cylinder deadbolts.
You and your staff protect your restaurant during the day, but what happens at night after everyone goes home? High-quality locks can protect your business even when you aren't around. Deadbolts are secure locks that are difficult to pick. Double cylinder deadbolts need to be opened with a key on either side; this prevents a potential trespasser from smashing a nearby window and reaching in to unlock the door. Talk to your local locksmith about the best option for your particular business, and he can help you install the right lock for the job. Make sure to only give keys to your most trusted employees.
Your restaurant is an investment, a part of your life, and you want to do all that you can to keep it safe. By taking appropriate precautions, you'll be able to safeguard it from intruders. These three tips will provide you with all the knowledge you need to get started securing your business. For more information, contact a local locksmith company, like Irvine Lock & Key.