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While any jewelry store owner or operator is aware of the inherent risks involved with keeping your business safe when you deal in such valuable merchandise, many smaller businesses are not always prepared to defend against a robbery. Incidents of "smash and grabs" - robberies in which the thief in question smashes the glass of your windows or display cases to make off with store merchandise - have frequented newspapers for years, and these thefts are constant causes for concern. Alarm systems and safes can help deter some of these incidents, but there are a number of other important measures to take to secure your inventory. Upgrade Your Glass Many smaller jewelry stores opt for normal glass windows and display cases, but strengthened glass can help ensure that your stock stays where it is. Laminated glass and impact-resistant glazing materials are both viable options, as these sources of supplemental strength can reinforce the cases to allow them to withstand the impact of a potential smash and grab. In addition, certain installation experts can offer special framing techniques that allow the glass to tolerate even repeated hits from hammers and axes. Robbers who attempt to break these types of glass during business hours frequently flee once they recognize the material's durability, and even rigorous attempts at breaking the material often allows them to create only a small hole, reducing the amount of inventory loss on your part. While these glass upgrades may initially be a significant investment, they may ease your worries and reduce the number of break-ins. Constant Vigilance For very small stores, the use of buzzer systems may be ideal. With these systems, clients who wish to enter the store must be buzzed inside, meaning that your staff will be aware of their presence. Any staff on the sales floor should, of course, be reminded to be aware of any signs of suspicious activity, as most thefts are preceded by some degree of preliminary investigation on the part of the criminals. As an additional safeguard, install obvious cameras throughout the store, especially at the entrance, to ensure that visitors are aware that they are being watched. Hide Merchandise After Closing While your reinforced glass will help to protect your valuables from theft, there is only so much that the strengthened material can withstand. To deter any determined robbers, it's a good idea to remove any potential prizes from the sight of anyone standing outside of your store. Every night at closing, remove all items from your showcases and displays and place them in a secure safe or vault; if you do not have enough secure storage on the premises, it is still important to put your valuables in a locked back room and out of sight. While some stores simply cover inventory at night, this still shows interested parties that you have something valuable enough to hide in the cases. Smash and grab crimes can happen in the blink of an eye, and although these robberies are a source of frustration and worry for many jewelry store owners and operators, they don't have to be. A few changes to your habits and upgrades to your existing security can help ensure the safety of your merchandise. For more information on jewelry stores in Saginaw, MI, visit http://www.hermanhiss.net/.
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