Business Watch Program
The Regional Chamber of Commerce is committed to keeping you and your business safe. Through the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department Business Watch program merchants can learn a number of crime prevention techniques to reduce opportunities for crime in their businesses. The program also assists business owners become familiar with resources available from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Walnut/Diamond Bar/Rowland Heights Station.
Below are some tips to keep you business safe. Or you may call the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department for more information on their Business Watch Program at 626.913.1715 or 909.595.2264.
BUILDING SECURITY
The address and name of your business should be visible from the street. Use large, reflectorized numbers. Mark the address with large, reflectorized numbers on rooftops for helicopter patrols.
Install floodlights for alleyways, rear and front entrances, parking lots, etc.
Trim shrubbery and plants to prevent hiding places for burglars.
Secure all windows and vents to prevent access. Secure fire escape ladders to rooftops. Don't hang advertisements, flyers or other items around windows or doors which might obstruct view by cruising patrol cars.
Leave blinds partially open during closing hours. Exterior doors should be solid core; rear doors facing alleyways should be steel. Glass doors should have mesh steel grill work. Mylar window coverings are inexpensive deterrents.
THEFT PREVENTION
Maintain an inventory of all office equipment; include the make, model and serial number of each item. Engrave your business name and a traceable number on each item, i.e., driver's license. Secure removable equipment with cables.
Keep a log of keys issued to employees; use interchangeable cylinders on locks; change keys and combinations periodically.
Install convex and wall mirrors. Place high cost merchandise near cash register. Small, expensive items should be kept in locked cases.
FORGERY PREVENTION
Stolen credit card losses can be reduced by alertness and proper security measures by you and your employees.
Check all credit card numbers against current 'hot-sheet' listings.
Request valid ID and verify signatures when credit cards are presented.
Contact store security and the card issuer if you suspect fraud.
ROBBERY PREVENTION
Install a robbery alarm. Place a surveillance camera behind the cash register facing the front counter. Replace video tapes regularly.
Vary times and routes of travel for bank deposits. Don't use money bags which make it obvious to would -be robbers.
Keep a low balance in the cash register. Place excess cash in a safe or deposit it.
Comply with a robber's demands. Don't be a hero! Remain calm and concentrate on being a good witness.
BUILDING SECURITY
The address and name of your business should be visible from the street. Use large, reflectorized numbers. Mark the address with large, reflectorized numbers on rooftops for helicopter patrols.
Install floodlights for alleyways, rear and front entrances, parking lots, etc.
Trim shrubbery and plants to prevent hiding places for burglars.
Secure all windows and vents to prevent access. Secure fire escape ladders to rooftops. Don't hang advertisements, flyers or other items around windows or doors which might obstruct view by cruising patrol cars.
Leave blinds partially open during closing hours. Exterior doors should be solid core; rear doors facing alleyways should be steel. Glass doors should have mesh steel grill work. Mylar window coverings are inexpensive deterrents.