Being a business owner is never easy, and sometimes you have to deal with unfortunate situations such as a break-in. Knowing the steps to take after a break-in is essential for swift recovery and future protection.
Being prepared to deal with a break-in can help you recover quickly and protect your property.
Here’s a quick guide on what to do next, including how a professional locksmith can help secure your premises.
1. Prioritize Safety
First and foremost, ensure everyone’s safety. If the break-in is discovered during business hours, calmly move everyone to a safe place. Avoid touching anything at the scene to preserve evidence.
2. Contact Law Enforcement
Call 911 to report the incident. Police will come to document what happened, gather evidence, and file a report, which will be helpful when working with your insurance.
3. Record the Damage
Before any cleanup, take photos or videos of any damage, such as broken locks, doors, or windows. This documentation will be essential for filing an insurance claim and support it with evidence.
4. Inform Your Insurance Company
Reach out to your insurance provider as soon as possible, sharing the police report and any photos you took. Try to call your insurance company before any cleanup. Quick communication can speed up the claims process and help you get back on track.
5. Hire a Locksmith for Security Repairs and Upgrades
After a break-in, securing your business property is a priority. A professional locksmith service in San Diego County or Riverside County, like Busy Bees Locks & Keys, can help.
- Replacing or Rekeying Locks: If locks were damaged or keys are missing, rekeying or replacing locks can prevent unauthorized access.
- Repairing and Reinforcing Doors: Damaged doors and frames can be repaired and strengthened to improve security.
- Upgrading to High-Security Locks: Consider high-security locks that resist picking, drilling, and other forced-entry tactics.
- Installing Keyless Entry Systems: Keyless or electronic access controls can enhance security and allow you to manage who can enter.
Your business could have its own unique security needs. Also, some locations are more prone to break-ins and burglaries. A local locksmith can offer valuable advice on the best options for securing your business.
6. Improve Your Security Measures
Burglars prefer easy targets, and a business with high security and 24/7 surveillance isn’t the easiest target. Take the time to reassess your security setup. With CCTV cameras, burglar alarms and surveillance systems in place, you can deter future break-in attempts. Consider adding or improving:
- Alarm Systems: Connect doors, windows, and other access points to alarm systems.
- Surveillance Cameras: Placing CCTV cameras at entrances, exits, and other key spots can enhance safety.
- Access Control for Employees: Establish protocols on who has access to keys or entry codes to better control who can enter your building.
7. Update Your Team and Reassure Clients
Let your employees know what steps are being taken to secure the premises. Communicate with any concerned clients to reassure them that their safety and data are protected.
Summary
A break-in at your storefront or office or any business property be overwhelming, but quick action and professional support can help recover quickly. If you are in San Diego County or Southwestern Riverside County, Busy Bees Locks & Keys will help secure your property and prevent future incidents.