Berkley Shares Holiday Security Tips

(PRESS RELEASE) Be ready for a safe and profitable holiday season by taking a few security precautions:

1. False alarms: Respond to every alarm signal. Thieves may trigger your alarm repeatedly to lull you into believing the alarm system is faulty. Discuss repeated alarm signals with your alarm company.
2. Security system tests: Check all alarm systems and the back-up radio or cell. Ensure that all systems are working properly. Not sure how to conduct a security system test? Ask your alarm monitoring company.
3. Physical protections: Make sure all windows, doors, locks and protective devices are in good working order.
4. New vendors: Be cautious of new vendors seeking to make large transactions.
5. Travel exposure: Despite the holiday hustle and bustle, always be alert and follow security procedures when transporting jewelry locally or long distances.
6. Increased foot traffic: Consider hiring seasonal security to prevent holiday theft.
7. Inventory levels: Be aware of your changing inventory values and assure that you are carrying sufficient insurance limits for your business. Also, check your limits for out-of-safe and show- window coverage when closed.
8. Potential theft: Be vigilant for signs that someone is casing your business to commit theft, e.g., a new customer more curious about the store operations than items for sale or a visitor who fidgets, avoids eye contact, wears a large hat and sunglasses. Review your plan for these thefts. Make sure all employees know a predetermined phrase that alerts them to a potential threat without alarming customers. Employees should know the proper steps to take when the code phrase is used. Practice this before and during the holiday season.