Each year the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) publishes a report on crime in America. On September 24, 2024, the 2023 data was released. This corresponds to the Crime Prevention month awareness programs that many communities recognize. In 1984, October was designated as Crime Prevention month by Presidential Proclamation. The good news is that there was a slight reduction of property crimes in 2023 compared to 2022. Burglaries were down 7.6% and larceny was down 4.4%. Unfortunately, vehicle theft was up 12.6%.
If you have not conducted a property security audit of your facilities and procedures, now is a good time to conduct one. A good audit may include some or all of the following:
- Testing locking mechanisms for windows and doors.
- Ensuring that only authorized persons have keys and codes for access to your property.
- Reviewing exterior lighting and add, refocus, replace, or repair lighting to ensure adequate coverage at night.
- Providing added security for vulnerable operations or attractive property, such as alarms, camera, etc.
- Testing systems for function and communication.
- Updating IT and intellectual property security policy and procedures.
- Training of staff on security procedures including de-escalation and when to engage police.
Each operation has its own unique exposures and needs customized controls. Look for advice from local law enforcement, your insurance provider and/or a specialized security consultant.
Disclaimer
The information contained herein is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or other professional advice and should not be relied upon in lieu of consultation with your own legal and/or other professional advisors. Some of the information, examples and suggestions presented in this material may be compiled by third-party sources we consider to be reliable; however, we do not guarantee and are not responsible for the accuracy of such information. We assume no duty in contract, tort, or otherwise in connection with this publication and expressly disclaim, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any liability in connection with this publication. Verita CSG, Inc. does not undertake to update the information included herein after the date of publication. Accordingly, readers should be aware that certain content may have changed since the date of this publication.