Small businesses are the backbone of Colorado’s economy, but unfortunately, they are also frequent targets for crime. In fact, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce survey found that as many as 56% of small businesses reported theft, with 53% saying the problem has worsened over time. With crime rates increasing, small business owners must take proactive steps to protect their assets and employees now more than ever.
With fewer resources than large corporations, small business owners must be proactive in protecting their assets, employees, and customers. Small business security is a critical factor in ensuring businesses remain safe from potential threats. Investing in crime prevention strategies not only safeguards a business but also fosters a safer community overall.
Understanding why criminals target small businesses and the role security guards play in crime prevention can make all the difference in keeping your business safe.
Keep reading to learn more!
Why This Matters Now
From shoplifting to vandalism, small businesses face unique security challenges that larger corporations are often financially equipped to handle. Without the right security measures, small business owners risk devastating financial losses, operational disruptions, and reputation damages.
Retail theft and business-related crimes are on the rise. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, small businesses are experiencing more incidents of theft, leading to increased financial strain.
Forbes also reports that business owners most often experience theft a few times a week resulting in thousands of dollars lost every single month. In Colorado alone, there were 2,047 theft-related incidents per 100,000 residents in 2021, resulting in a $109.96 total value of stolen goods per resident.
With crime trends on the rise, business owners must take preventive action before incidents occur or risk losing out financially. Addressing security risks now can help reduce the likelihood of theft, property damage, and potential harm to employees and customers. Fortunately, implementing strategic security solutions can significantly reduce these risks.
Why Are Small Businesses Targeted?
Criminals see small businesses as easy targets because local businesses often don’t have active ways to stop stealing — only passive ones. For example, cameras don’t stop someone from stealing, and when small businesses have limited staff who are helping other customers, there’s typically nothing standing in the way of someone stealing from a small business. Other reasons include:
- Limited security measures: Many small businesses lack advanced security systems, making it easier for criminals to break in during the night.
- Lower staff numbers: Fewer employees on-site can lead to reduced oversight, creating more opportunities for theft happening and no one noticing.
- High cash transaction: Retail stores, restaurants, and service businesses that handle cash on a daily basis are particularly attractive to criminals.
- Lack of formal security presence: The absence of active measures to stop theft, like security guards, can make businesses more vulnerable to theft.
How Security Guards Protect Small Businesses
Hiring professional security guards is one of the most effective ways to deter crime and create a safe environment for customers and employees. Security for small businesses is crucial in ensuring businesses have the protection they need to thrive. Here’s how security guards can help:
Act as a Visible Deterrent
Criminals are far less likely to target a business that has a security guard on-site. The presence of a uniformed guard signals that security measures are in place, reducing the risk of theft and other crimes.
Respond Quickly to Security Threats
Unlike surveillance cameras and alarm systems, security guards can take immediate action in case of a security breach. Whether it’s handling a shoplifter, de-escalating a confrontation, or responding to an emergency, trained security professionals ensure that situations are addressed swiftly and effectively.
Provide Customer Service and Business Support
Security guards do more than prevent crime. They also assist customers, manage crowd control, and enforce store policies. Their presence enhances customer confidence, making people feel safer while shopping or visiting your business.
Monitor Surveillance and Enforce Safety Protocols
Security guards can monitor security cameras in real-time, patrol the premises, and identify suspicious behavior before it escalates. They also ensure that employees and customers adhere to safety protocols, such as closing procedures and access control.
Protect Against Employee Theft
Internal theft is a common issue for many small businesses. Having a security guard on-site can deter dishonest employees from engaging in fraudulent activities, such as cash register theft or unauthorized access to inventory.
Assist During Emergencies
Whether it’s a medical emergency, fire, or violent incident, security guards are trained to handle crises effectively. They can assist with evacuations, provide first aid, and coordinate with law enforcement when necessary.
Tips for Small Business Owners for Reducing Theft
Beyond hiring security guards, small businesses can take proactive measures to minimize theft and improve overall security. Chat with other small business owners and see what they do to combat theft from happening in their stores. Some of the most common tips to reduce shoplifters include:
- Optimize your store layout: Keep high-value items near checkout counters and remove blind spots where theft could occur.
- Implement access control: Restrict access to certain areas of your business to prevent unauthorized entry.
- Improve lighting in and around the business: Ensure all entrances, parking lots, and dark areas are well-lit to deter criminals.
- Use security cameras: Install surveillance cameras in high-risk areas to monitor activity and provide evidence in case of a crime.
- Train employees on security protocols: Educate staff on recognizing suspicious behavior, handling shoplifters, and reporting security concerns.
- Encourage a community watch program: Collaborate with neighboring businesses to keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report incidents.
Secure Your Small Business with Pikes Peak Security
With theft and vandalism on the rise, taking proactive security measures can mean the difference between stability and financial loss. Investing in security guards, strengthening safety protocols, and staying vigilant can help create a secure environment for your business, employees, and customers.
At Pikes Peak Security, we specialize in providing professional security guard services tailored to the needs of small businesses in Colorado Springs and Denver. Our trained security personnel offer on-site protection, emergency response, and customer support, ensuring your business remains safe and secure. Don’t wait until an incident occurs — take proactive steps to safeguard your business today with Pikes Peak Security.
