Crime Prevention for Businesses

Discouraging Criminals

• Keep sightlines clear from inside to outside; trim landscaping to improve visibility.
• Use interior and exterior lighting (consider motion-activated for dark areas) to draw attention to windows and doors visible from streets or busy areas.
• Install and maintain a reliable video surveillance system inside and outside; angle cameras to capture cash areas, entrances, and windows. Retain several days of footage.
• Post visible deterrent signage (e.g., “No Cash on Premises,” “Video Cameras Onsite”).
• Maintain bright lighting and regularly check that it is working.
• Remove materials outside that could be used to gain entry.

Managing Visitors

• Require visitors to sign in/out and wear a visitor badge.
• Have them return the badge before leaving.
• Confirm all strangers have valid passes.
• Encourage employees to report suspicious activity to police.
• Do not leave valuables unattended, visible, or in predictable unlocked locations.

Storefront & Display Tips

• Keep front windows and doors clear for a direct view to the sales counter.
• Position cash registers so they are visible from outside.
• Use low displays in front windows for visibility.
• Maintain bright, functional lighting inside and out.
• Keep cash floats low; use drop safes and make frequent, irregular bank deposits.
• Place less valuable merchandise in window displays to reduce smash-and-grab risk.
• Keep expensive merchandise behind locked counters or near the cash area.
• Use shatterproof or security-film-treated glass in renovations.
• Remove items from window displays overnight.
• Avoid tall shelving that blocks sightlines; place shelves to allow staff to see between aisles from the counter.
• Install mirrors to cover blind spots.
• Install height markers, cash-handling stickers, and security window stickers.
• Keep accurate, up-to-date inventory with serial numbers for valuable items.
• Keep side and service doors locked at all times; do not use back doors for access.

Staffing

• Increase staff during peak times.
• Ensure an employee is on the floor at all times while customers are present.
• Assign employees to specific sections.
• Hire trained security when appropriate.

Training Sales Associates

• Greet customers and make regular eye contact.
• Pay attention to those with large coats, oversized bags, or unusual behaviour.
• Provide attentive customer service to deter theft.
• Do not chase thieves—staff safety comes first.
• Watch for label switching, distraction techniques, short-changing, and phony returns.
• Only display one of a pair (e.g., shoes) and lock valuable items in cases.
• Limit dressing room items; remove empty hangers promptly.
• Fasten down display items and avoid placing valuable merchandise near exits.

A robbery is a theft involving violence or threats of violence.

In the event of a robbery:

• Remain calm and comply with demands.
• Tell the robber what you are doing before making any movements.
• Give only what is requested.
• Observe details: suspect appearance, clothing, weapon, surfaces touched, escape direction.
• Do not provoke the suspect.
• Call 9-1-1 when safe to do so.
• Lock doors and close the business after the suspect leaves.
• Prevent anyone from disturbing the suspect’s path or touching evidence.
• Do not clean or move anything until police have completed their investigation.

• Remove all cash from tills; leave them open with trays visible.
• Remove window display items overnight.
• Install monitored alarms and post signage on doors/windows.
• Install latch guards on all doors to prevent prying.
• Use security film or laminates on glass to deter forced entry.
• Keep interior lighting on overnight.
• Ensure all exterior lighting works and all doors are locked.
• Remove any materials outside that could assist in a break-in.
• Clean glass surfaces regularly and log dates for possible forensic evidence.

• Call police immediately and do not enter until they clear the premises.
• Do not open for business until advised by police.
• Avoid walking through suspect paths—stay near walls.
• Do not touch anything; fingerprints and footwear impressions may still be present.
• Wait until forensic officers have completed their examination before cleaning.

Some crimes, such as shoplifting/retail theft, can be reported online. Click here to visit our Online Reporting page to learn more.