Is there anything that I can do to prevent my premium from increasing? There are many actions with little or no cost that can be done. Tip 29 – Armed Robberies – Prevention ROBBERY PREVENTION AND SECURITY ADVICE Cash has always been the primary target of criminals. Cigarettes are also extremely vulnerable. Whilst it may not be possible to prevent every armed robbery, things can be made much more difficult for raiders by people being more security conscious and aware of the dangers involved in cash-handling and by taking necessary precautions. Cash Tills: – Avoid letting large amounts of cash accumulate in tills. Never count/store cash in public view. Cash Office: – Strict access-control of persons entering should be exercised. Control of entry should be from within the office. Nobody should be in a position to enter unless they are let in. Cash safes should have dual keys access and secured to solid floor/wall. Intruder Alarm: – Ensure intruder alarm, (all zones), and panic button alarms are in working order and key holder contacts are up to date. Arrangements can be made to have unscheduled openings of the premises after normal locking-up time by Alarm Company’s monitoring centre. Close-Circuit Television: – Ensure cameras are not obstructed and system regularly maintained. Recording equipment should be stored securely to prevent unauthorised access. Movements of Cash: – When cash is being moved in or out of premises, ensure that area is thoroughly checked and entry/exit points secured to prevent the possibility of cash carriers being ambushed inside the building or indeed in the immediate vicinity. Ensure that outside contractors working in premises around cash movement times have been authorised. Key Holding: – Where possible devise a system where it requires at least two persons to gain access to cash. Ensure keys are stored securely to avoid unauthorised access and remember that keys must be removed from the premises after hours. Cigarettes: – Next to cash, cigarettes are the most vulnerable target. In this case it usually involves forced entry after closure but there are also incidents involving armed robberies. There are also occasions when deliveries are stolen before the stock has been safely stored. Always treat your tobacco stock as you do your cash. Never leave anywhere that is vulnerable to a snatch and grab and remember that a loss of this type is NOT covered by your insurance. Always remember – call us to discuss any/every incident. We will advise and guide you.