Police issue crime prevention advice to shops in the west

Police in the west are continuing to work closely with businesses to promote crime prevention awareness.

In the run up to Christmas, officers will be stepping up patrols in a bid to address the issue of shoplifting.

They say there are a number of steps that shop owners can take to decrease their chance of being targeted by thieves.

1. Make sure you have adequate staff on premises and that they are alert and trained to spot potential offenders.

2. Use good store design as a deterrent. For example, customers must pass pay desk before they leave.

3. Make sure high-value products are properly secured or tagged, and place visible security measures/staff at exit points.

4. Give receipts for all purchases and keep an accurate record of your stock.

5. Use CCTV and other security measures to reduce areas where theft could take place.

6. Use visible signage around your premises to re-enforce security measures - e.g. ‘shoplifters will be prosecuted’.

7. Lock high-value items in security cabinets and supervise access.

8. Supervise clothes fitting rooms and ensure toilets and similar areas do not have outside access.

If you need further advice please contact your local Crime Prevention Officer on the 101 number.