The following are suggestions Ottawa business owners can take to increase security to their properties that are temporarily closed:

• Remove all valuables from store front displays. This will help mitigate smash and grab scenarios such as jewelry and electronic stores.
• Remove all valuables such as cash from the till and leave open. Place the cash tray in plain view on the counter to signal there’s no money in the till.
• Consider installing an alarm monitoring system. If one is already present ensure the contact list is up to date.

• Clearly post signage on the door/window to indicate premises is:

• • Monitored by alarm company;
  • No money is kept on premises; and
  • Contact information for the police and business owner in the event a member of the public observes damage to property or suspicious activity.

• If the premise is closed for an extended period of time, clean all glass surfaces and create a tracking log of when cleaning was completed. This may assist investigators with suspect fingerprints if a break in occurs.
• Consider installing a surveillance camera system that can be monitored online by owner/management.
• Consider using a laminate on all windows and glass doors to increase glass integrity from blunt force. Although damage to glass will occur in a break-in attempt, it will greatly discourage or prevent entry.
• Install latch guards on doors to protect against prying, this should include secondary doors such as employee and loading entrances.
• Keep some lighting on inside for surveillance opportunities during the evening.
• Ensure all doors are properly secured and regularly check all exterior lighting is functioning.
• Remove material around the exterior of property that maybe be used to gain entry into the premises (brick, metal poles and construction materials)

 General protective measures 

• Keep the interior, front and rear entrances well lighted.
• Keep advertising and merchandise out of windows as much as possible.
• Always keep the rear and side doors locked.
• Maintain a record of decoy or “bait” currency to be given to a robber.
• Be sure your alarms are in good working order at all times.
• Do not open your place of business before or after regular business hours.
• Avoid routine procedures which can be observed and used to the advantage of would-be robbers.
• Call the police if a request is received to open after regular hours.

For further information please refer to the attached link: https://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/safety-and-crime-prevention/Retail-Robbery-Prevention.aspx