Robbery Prevention Tips
What is a Robbery?
(Florida Statute 812) - Robbery means the taking of money or other property from the custody of a person or owner with the intent to either permanently or temporarily deprive the person or owner through use of force, violence, assault or putting in fear.
It can happen to Anyone, at Anytime, at Anyplace!
- Walk in well-lit areas. If possible, never walk alone.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If you think you are being followed, go to a crowded area.
- Do NOT carry large amounts of money.
- Carry keys in your hand.
- If you observe suspicious persons or activities, call Law Enforcement to investigate.
In the event a robber confronts you
- Do not take any action that could jeopardize your personal safety or the safety of others.
- Remain calm and do as you are told.
- Carefully observe the physical characteristics of the robber.
- Be a good witness. Note as much detail about the suspect(s) as possible.
(Age, race, height, facial hair, speech, clothing, odor, etc.)
After the robbery:
- When it is safe, notify the police by calling 911.
- Law Enforcement will ask for the following information: location of robbery, whether anyone is injured, the exact time the robber(s) left and their direction of travel, the kind of weapon used, description of the vehicle, the robber(s), their clothing, appearance or unique features, money or items taken, and other information to assist responding officers.
- Protect the scene of the crime. Do Not Touch Anything! You might destroy evidence.
- Ask all witnesses to stay until law enforcement arrives. Allow no one in except the police or emergency personnel.
- Write down all suspect information immediately and do not discuss the robbery with anyone until questioned by the police.
For Businesses
Become security conscious!
- Don't be afraid to call the police if you see something suspicious.
Keep law enforcement emergency and non-emergency phone numbers handy. - Maintain Visibility into your place of business
- Never block the view into your business by crowding windows with signs or merchandise.
- Use low display counters and cases to maintain visibility from both inside and outside the business.
- Keep all entrances, exits, and parking areas well lighted
- Secure you cashier operation
- Install barriers high enough to keep unauthorized persons out of the area where cash transactions take place. Place the cash register a safe distance from the door, but not so far back that it is not visible from outside.
- Keep a spare key and phone hidden in the freezer or storeroom.
Install a hold-up alarm system, with points through out the business. Periodically test the system with the assistance of the alarm company. - Keep cash on premises to a minimum.
Make frequent cash drops at varied times of the day or week. Use two or more employees to make cash drops or use a courier service. - Keep your safe locked at all times.
Review robbery procedures and alarm system operations frequently with your employees. - Keep key holder information up to date with law enforcement and alarm company.
- Use one or more persons to open and/or close the business. There is better safety in numbers.
If you would like a Security Survey or Robbery Awareness Seminar provided at no charge, please contact the Crime Prevention Unit at (850) 891-4251 or via email.