Crime Corner
Securing a Safe Start in 2024: Navigating New Year's Risks and Protecting Your Assets.
As we kick off the new year, it's crucial for us to stay abreast of the challenges facing our industry. Recent reports from the Alberta Motor Association have sounded an alarming note—vehicle thefts in our province have surged by 17%, with an average of 57 vehicles disappearing daily. This statistic should serve as a stark reminder of the need for heightened security measures at car dealerships.
Especially in cold weather, the risk is heightened as motorists inadvertently leave keys in unlocked, idling vehicles. Shockingly, approximately 50% of all stolen vehicles in Alberta are taken with the keys left inside. The implications of vehicle theft extend beyond mere inconvenience; stolen vehicles are often employed in more serious crimes such as break-ins and robberies. To safeguard our communities, we must collectively take action to curb auto theft.
Here are five practical Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) strategies to fortify your dealership:
- Car Placement: Strategically position cars to deter theft and make towing more challenging.
- Restricted Entry Points: Limiting access enhances surveillance, reducing blind spots for better traffic monitoring.
- Lot Protection: Well-lit lots with proper fencing act as deterrents, making thieves less likely to operate in exposed areas.
- Inventory System: Implement a strict inventory system, limiting access and tracking movement through an in/out log.
- Secure the Service Department: Protect keys and fobs by storing them securely, reducing opportunities for opportunistic theft.
In synergy with these strategies, explore our Redhanded™ remote guarding security, supported by a 24/7 5-star monitoring station, offering a subtle yet powerful layer of security. Unlike conventional surveillance systems, our approach allows us to proactively intervene in real-time, providing a nuanced advantage in preventing incidents before they occur. This significantly reduces the likelihood of permanent damage to your property and the loss of assets for good.
