As the science of crime deterrence updates every day, so too do the crime prevention techniques applied to building design and project layout improve. While many of the new design concepts are impossible to apply to an already constructed location, some principles can be implemented anywhere that will both stop crime before it happens and improve the quality of life there.

Most important is that a location must appear to be safe, secure, and maintained to any party that is looking to intrude. Fences and property are a simple way to show that the owner cares about his property’s integrity and are a surprisingly effective deterrent. A site that is well cared for gives an impression of being secure, broken windows and downtrodden areas can give a sense of neglect and vulnerability to a potential intruder. 

Good lighting is essential. Pathways and hallways are especially vulnerable due to their frequency of use. Making sure that these areas can be well observed from outside areas significantly reduces any form of risk.

Effective use of signage will keep occupants of a location safe by giving them and understanding of their responsibility in the mutual effort of security, as well as making sure that they understand the characteristics of the environment. A more extensive application of this principle can be applied with an information kiosk, concierge, or well-trained security officer.

​Avoid establishing areas where surveillance is impossible. Any place that is isolated from outside observation is the most likely area for an incident to occur. Solutions to consider are adding windows if possible, cameras, or regular patrols inside, depending on the nature of the specific location. 

We previously discussed the pros and cons of contract vs. proprietary security. There is another option to consider which is a hybrid solution. Several of our clients choose to utilize this route due to the unique way it solves many of the issues that security clients sometimes have with both bringing in contracted officers or using solely their own employees.

The most common form of a hybrid solution is that of a company has a security position that their employee covers during business hours, but that they need to be manned for additional time, whether that be a 24/7 post or through the evening until their business closes. In this event CAP covers not only the off hours each day, but also whatever extra shifts are required. This means that in the event of your employee calling off sick, going on vacation, or taking holidays off, it will be CAP’s responsibility to bring one of our trained professionals in to cover, avoiding the conflicts that can arise from the need to hire and train another employee for a short term period.

Another benefit is the ability to bring in a specialized employee, such as an EMT, on to your site, or cover a short notice and short-term increase in required personnel without having to go through the undue process of creating a new department or of overextending yourself by hiring beyond easy means. In these scenarios you get all the benefits of the convenience of having a contracted company filling your needs, while still retaining your current position and employees.