Business Safety

How do I keep my business safe?

Protecting your business takes planning, awareness, and teamwork. The Woodstock Police Service encourages all business owners, employees, and property managers to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of theft, fraud, and other crimes.

Below are important safety tips and best practices to help you keep your workplace, staff, and property secure.

General Business Safety Tips

• Keep your inventory organized and up to date.
• If you accept online payments or store customer data, ensure your website and network are secure using proper authentication and firewalls.
• Install security cameras to deter crime and help identify suspects.
• Train employees on safe opening and closing procedures.
• Secure all doors and windows with sturdy locks or metal security cages where possible.
• Keep the exterior of your building well-lit and install tamper-resistant covers over lights and power sources.
• Arrange your sales floor for maximum visibility and eliminate blind spots. Keep high-value items in locked display cases.
• Change locks immediately if keys are lost or an employee leaves without returning them.
• Use an entry chime or annunciator to alert staff when someone enters.
• Make regular bank deposits during business hours, but vary your route and times.
• Avoid discussing sensitive business details in public spaces.
• Shred sensitive documents before disposal.
• Build relationships with neighbouring businesses and look out for each other.
• Avoid working alone after hours — use a buddy system or request a security escort.
• Protect your online presence by using updated antivirus, anti-phishing, and anti-spyware software.

Robbery Prevention Measures

• Greet or acknowledge each customer upon entry.
• Approach loiterers and ask if they need assistance.
• Watch for suspicious persons outside in vehicles or on foot.
• Be cautious of anyone asking about your security systems or cash-handling routines.
• Never count money or open safes in view of customers.
• Make deposits during business hours using unmarked containers.
• Keep window areas clear of posters or displays that obstruct visibility.
• Remove stock or outdoor items that could provide hiding spots.
• Maintain bright, consistent lighting inside and outside.
• Ensure your alarm system is working properly and that staff know how to arm, disarm, and use panic buttons.
• Keep all side or service doors locked at all times.

During a Robbery

• Remain calm and do not resist.
• Focus on safety — your life and the lives of your staff and customers come first.
• Observe and remember key details such as clothing, tattoos, build, and hair colour.
• Retain any notes or items the suspect gives you, handling them only by the edges.
• Do not argue, chase, or fight back — you do not know if the suspect is armed.

After a Robbery

• Immediately lock all doors to prevent re-entry.
• Do not touch or move anything to preserve evidence.
• Note the suspect’s direction of travel or vehicle details, but maintain your safety.
• Call police right away and follow all dispatcher instructions. Do not hang up until told to do so.
• Ask witnesses to remain and provide statements.
• Write down everything you remember while details are fresh.
• Be factual when speaking with police — avoid exaggeration.

Security Tips: Closing a Business for an Extended Period

• Remove all valuables from storefront displays.
• Empty cash tills and leave drawers open with trays visible.
• Use light timers inside to simulate activity and improve security camera footage.
• Clean windows and floors before leaving to help identify any later forced entry.
• Post clear signage indicating the premises are alarm-monitored and that no cash is kept on-site.
• Include the Woodstock Police Service non-emergency number 519-537-2323 for reporting suspicious activity.
• Apply protective film to windows to reduce smash-and-grab thefts.
• Confirm all locks, doors, and windows are secured.
• Test alarm systems and update emergency contact lists.
• Use CCTV or remote-monitored surveillance if possible.
• Ensure all exterior lighting is operational — motion sensors are highly recommended.
• Remove items such as ladders, tools, or materials that could be used to gain entry.
• Arrange periodic checks of your building at different times and maintain a written log.

Note: The Woodstock Police Service reminds business and property owners that appearance matters. A well-maintained, well-lit, and regularly checked property is far less likely to be targeted than one that looks neglected or unoccupied.