Protect Your Business

Robbery is a crime that targets both people and businesses. Reduce the risk of personal injury and increase the potential of bringing the culprit(s) to justice.
Information from Toronto Police Service

Visibility

• Ensure that windows are not covered over by signs or merchandise.
• The store cash register should be located so as to allow a clear view for passing motorists, pedestrians and police patrols. In the event of a robbery, a store employee will be able to note the car’s description and direction of travel.
• Notify the police if suspicious persons hang around your place of business. Be especially alert at opening and closing times.

Lighting

• The interior, exterior, front and rear of a business premise should be well illuminated to deter potential robbers from hiding in shadows or poorly lit areas.

Video Equipment

• If your business is equipped with a video camera ensure the system is working. Regularly clean and inspect the video equipment and change the video tape every week. Ensure proper camera alignment of the cash register and/or doorway area

Money Handling

• Do not keep large amounts of cash on the premise
• Use a drop safe or night deposit. When making night deposits have someone with you, stagger your delivery times and DO NOT carry money in sight

During a Robbery

• Remain Calm
• Obey the robber’s commands
• Do not antagonize the robber
• Consider all firearms to be loaded
• Look at the robbers – notice details to aid you in describing them and their mannerisms. Note age, weight, height, clothing, tattoos or scars
• Take note of the weapon
• Watch the direction the robbers take – if they use a vehicle, try to note the licence plate number

After a Robbery

• Call the police immediately! Dial 9-1-1
• Give your name, telephone number and the address of the hold-up
• Give a description of the suspect(s), direction of travel, and a licence number if a vehicle was used
• Advise whether or not weapons were used
• Protect the crime scene. Keep customers or other employees away from the area of the store where the robbery occurred
• Ask witnesses to wait until the police arrive
• Lock the door until the police arrive
• Do not touch anything
• Save any notes that were used – do not handle it or let others handle it
• Co-operate with the police