One of the phrases that sends chills up the spines of rabid college and NFL football fans is a referee announcing “upon further review.” But Fall is the perfect time for your business to conduct a complete and thorough security review.
In the most recent statistics, 1 out of every 10 small businesses experienced a burglary incident. ONE OUT OF EVERY TEN!
Could your industrial, commercial or retail business realize benefits from a regular security patrol?

Here are three key areas to consider when assessing the security of your business.
Parking Lot
Your parking lot could very well be a scene for many types of crimes. While large lots obviously present security risks, small lots also draw vandals and burglars.
Parking lot crimes may occur during the day when shoppers or workers are inside the building away from their vehicles, or at night when valuable inventory is unattended and those going to and from their vehicles are more at risk.
While lighting can provide some security, that alone often serves only to slightly discourage or may unwittingly assist (lighting can actually help burglars see what is inside a vehicle) a burglar. Video cameras are also a discourager, however, they serve primarily to document a crime after it has occurred. The victim is still victimized.
A live, on-foot, or in-vehicle patrolling security guard is obviously a much stronger add-on to your security arsenal. Not only is a security patrol providing a visible, moving deterrent, but can also keep their trained eyes on your property to detect suspicious activity or vulnerable areas that need to be addressed.
Multiple Entrances and Exits
If your business features multiple entrances and exits, either in the same building or in multiple buildings, this also is a security issue. Multiple doors, loading docks, etc. also allow multiple entry points for thieves. Again, while lighting and video cameras are a benefit, an additional layer of mobile security patrols helps safeguard your business from unwanted intruders. Security patrols may also be able to double-check gates, doors, etc. on your property in after-hours or holiday situations.
Rising Crime Location
Businesses often find themselves in locations where crime rates have increased. Other businesses may have warehouses or other extensions of their business that are in similar situations. Roving patrols provide a visual deterrent for criminals who may decide your location isn’t worth the risk. Visible security patrols also increase the likelihood that someone is present while police may take several minutes to reach your destination.
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” This month would be a perfect time to put an ounce of prevention in place to protect your own business interests.

Frankie Lax is President of Maxxguard. Maxxguard has been serving security interests in West Tennessee since 1979 and continues to serve clients in a professional manner. Their annual client retention rate of 98% underscores their ability to deliver on our security promise. Call (731) 427-7222 for details.