Sep
1
Written by:
SuperUser Account
9/1/2011 8:25 AM
Car washes have unique security challenges in that they can be open 24-hours, have cash on site, can have one or no employees on site, and are conveniently located for quick in and out service. The nature of this business makes it very convenient for customers. Unfortunately, this business style also makes it an attractive target for robbers and other criminals.
One of the first proactive steps a business owner can take in securing the carwash is to design the layout with safety in mind- both for the carwash customer and employee. Lighting and shrubbery should be positioned so that anyone can see what’s going on any time of day or night. An obvious surveillance system, well-placed signage and cleanliness will give the impression that the carwash is frequented by employees and managers. Limiting access to potential “hiding areas” like offices, rest rooms or storage areas also discourages crimes of opportunity.
There are several measures a carwash owner can take to protect against criminal acts:
- Community watch programs- enlist neighboring businesses to look out for each other, develop mutually beneficial connections with your local police, schools & churches, and display signage promoting these programs on your site.
- Alarms, locks & safes- control entry and valuables at the carwash and keep track who has keys or access.
- Surveillance cameras & monitoring- get professionally-installed, outdoor-rated cameras with views of every area of the carwash site. There are various opinions on using covert vs. overt cameras, but either way, this will be your first line of defense if a crime does occur.
- Hire the right employees – check all references prior to hiring and do background checks on any employees who will handle cash.
- Train your employees- vary your opening & closing procedures, limit cash on hand and make sure your employees know what to do in case of an emergency or suspicious activity.
After an attempted robbery in Virginia, one owner of Unitec Electronics equipment stated that he has confidence in the security of his entry system, “Unitec’s machine is secure- he tried to get the money but couldn’t get in. We’ve been lucky.” Another crime victim and Unitec customer in Texas believes in the power of surveillance. He says, “That camera paid for itself many times over. I wouldn’t own anything without a security system anymore.”
Do you have other ideas on how best to protect your business from crime? What precautions have you put in place on your site that you would recommend to others? Unitec Electronics invites you to share your ideas and experiences here in our Wash Words blog.
Copyright ©2011 SuperUser Account