Police are urging business owners across the Sunshine Coast to review their security arrangements to help prevent becoming easier targets for break and enter, stealing and robbery offences.

Sunshine Coast District Crime Services Detective Inspector Darren Edwards said police and business owners needed to work together to help diminish the risk of burglaries and robberies.

“Offences such as these can be quite distressing for business owners and staff and can have a significant impact on their health, safety and general wellbeing.

“We have our District Crime Prevention Unit officers working closely with the Criminal Investigation Branch to ensure our concerns are being communicated to the business community, particularly in relation to the training of staff.”

Some helpful tips for business owners include:

• A regularly maintained alarm system incorporating a duress alarm. If the system is old, you may consider upgrading to one that has audio capacity. • A CCTV system with high picture quality and correctly mounted – particularly in the point of sale area which captures facial features of offenders.` • Installation of physical barriers (e.g. security grills, entry points fitted with high quality locking devices.) • Installation of security lighting (interior/exterior) • Signs asking customers to remove hoods and bike helmets; • Height markers displayed at entry points into your business. • Training your staff in cash handling procedures and personal safety.