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By Katlyn Eriksen

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Using digital security solutions to help Kamloops business owners deter thieves

Jan 15, 2025 | 6:00 AM

SMALL BUSINESSES ACROSS B.C. were struck by a 27 per cent increase in crime in 2024 — which surpasses the national average increase of 21 per cent and is the highest increase out of all provinces. That’s according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business’s recent report on the impact of crime on local businesses. The report also found that small businesses have spent an average of $5,000 in response to rising crime over the past three years — which includes money spent on inventory replacements, post-break-in repairs and security precautions. In particular, smart security investments like surveillance cameras, ID cards, and window and door reinforcements can help Kamloops business owners secure their premises and successfully deter thieves for good.

Security cameras are an effective deterrent

Sixty-seven per cent of Canadian small businesses have now upped security measures across their premises with the installation of surveillance cameras, specifically. Security cameras deter thieves and past research has found the presence of cameras in parking lots alone slashes crime by 51 per cent. As cameras also help business owners monitor their premises remotely, suspicious behavior can more easily be spotted and the authorities can be contacted right away. But, in order to be most effective, cameras should be installed strategically to provide visibility in the right spots — this includes high-traffic areas, blind spots (parking lots, walkways, alleys) and entrances/exits.

Security cameras also need to be positioned at the right height. Too low and they become easy for thieves to block. But if they’re too high, they may miss crimes as they take place and fail to provide a clear picture of the thief’s face and/or clothes. Cameras positioned anywhere between 10 to 12 feet high is the sweet spot to aim for.

ID cards tighten access control

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ID entry card systems are another powerful way Kamloops business owners can improve security. When employees are required to wear ID cards, anyone who enters an area they shouldn’t immediately stands out on a visual level. This deters thieves. On top of that, electronic access systems integrate RFID chips and/or magnetic strips with ID cards to further tighten access control. So, if someone attempts to open a door or enter an area without the right card, the system simply won’t let them.

This security measure is particularly important in light of the increase in high-value theft across B.C. Two-hundred-and-one incidents of shoplifting valued at over $5,000 were recorded in total in 2023, recent data from Statistics Canada reveals. That’s up from 161 incidents in 2022 and 126 incidents in 2021. ID cards can therefore be a useful way business owners can prevent unauthorised access and protect their assets and revenue. Ideally, when it comes to card material, metal is usually the superior choice. As metal ID cards are durable, they tend to stay in great condition and remain fully-functional despite frequent use. This is in contrast to standard PVC cards that are more likely to fade or break sooner.

Reinforce doors and windows

As doors and windows are also a common vulnerability for Kamloops businesses, it’s important they’re reinforced to improve security and keep thieves out. For example, in addition to surveillance cameras, 67 per cent of Canadian small businesses have also recently invested in window security bars, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business reveals. Security bars are fairly easy to install on both windows and doors and can effectively stop thieves in their tracks. As these bars can withstand significant brute force, thieves are more likely to give up and move onto somewhere else once they realize the bars make the premises impenetrable.

As a basic precaution, all doors and windows should also be fully closed and locked at the end of each day. This includes windows in less-obvious areas like storerooms and basements. In fact, some businesses prefer to use lock and unlock services provided by security companies who can take care of this responsibility for them.

With crime on the rise for small businesses across Canada, it’s important Kamloops’ business owners take steps to deter thieves and secure their premises. Simple yet effective security measures like security cameras, ID cards, and reinforcements for windows and doors can effectively improve security and allow small local businesses to thrive in the long term.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.