– The Ultimate Guide to Effective Measures
Over Half of All Businesses Experience Break-Ins
When the industry organization Företagarna surveyed 819 companies about burglaries over the past five years, a staggering 61% answered “YES.” According to Svenskt Näringsliv, theft and burglary cost Swedish businesses 21.5 billion kronor in 2023.
But the reality is even grimmer: 41% of affected companies don’t even report these crimes to the police, believing the authorities can’t solve the problem.
Perhaps you’re one of them?
How to Shield Your Business from Burglary
The market is flooded with anti-theft products, and costs can quickly spiral for those aiming to secure their premises.
The smarter alternative? Implement measures proven by studies to be most effective—at the lowest possible cost.
To uncover these strategies, we’ve consulted with insurance companies and police experts. Delving deep into statistics and criminological research, one thing is clear: preventive action is the most effective.
"Research shows that proactive work is the most effective way to stop burglaries. That's why my colleagues and I focus on preventing crime, and businesses should do the same."
Which Measures Actually Prevent Burglaries?
According to the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention (BRÅ), burglary prevention falls into three categories:
- Make it harder to commit a burglary.
- Make it less profitable.
- Increase the risk of the perpetrator being detected.
1. Make It Harder to Commit a Burglary
The most effective and economical way to deter break-ins is to make it tougher for thieves to enter your property.
Insurance experts recommend installing high-security doors, windows, locks, walls, and roofs. Additionally, consider fencing and lockable gates around your premises.
"The most cost-effective way to prevent burglaries is a combination of security-rated doors, windows, and entrances."
2. Make It Less Profitable
EUCPN reports that 80% of all burglaries are committed with the intent to resell stolen goods.
A simple yet powerful deterrent is to permanently mark valuables, tools, and vehicles. This not only makes it harder for thieves to sell stolen items but also aids the police in identifying and returning your property.
3. Increase the Risk of Detection
Nine out of ten convicted burglars state they would never attempt a break-in if someone appears to be “home.” By creating the illusion of occupancy, you significantly raise the perceived risk for potential intruders.
You can:
- Install timers to turn on lights inside and outside your workplace.
- Park a vehicle visibly outside your premises.
- Play a radio or sound system inside.
- Keep valuables out of sight from windows.
Neighborhood Collaboration Between Businesses Works
In the early 2000s, Munkfors, Sweden, faced a surge in crime. Local entrepreneurs united to patrol streets and industrial areas at night, documenting suspicious individuals and vehicles. This collective effort deterred criminals and enabled swift action when necessary.
Today, Munkfors is a safer place for everyone.
To collaborate with neighboring businesses:
- Connect with your municipality, police, and local businesses to develop a joint action plan.
- Document unusual activity in vulnerable areas during odd hours.
- Create a community Facebook group to keep everyone informed.
Report All Crimes—Don’t Aid the Criminals
John Forsberg emphasizes that reporting crimes is crucial to preventing future incidents.
“Our operations are entirely information-driven. We investigate the crimes reported to us, and the number of reports affects our funding from the state. If you don’t report a crime, it means we receive less funding and have fewer resources to combat criminality.
Combine Multiple Measures for Maximum Protection
An English study examining the effectiveness of various burglary prevention methods found that combining several measures offers the strongest defense.
While it might seem obvious, the study illustrates how specific combinations significantly enhance protection. As you layer security measures, both the difficulty for the burglar and the deterrent effect increase dramatically. (Source: Tseloni et al.)
Stop Burglaries with a Security-Rated Folding Door
Manual and motorized folding doors classified according to SK2 and SK3
What Works Less Effectively?
Beware of False Security
Many rely solely on burglar alarms to deter intruders. While a French study shows that alarms combined with other measures are effective, two studies in England and Wales found that alarms alone can have the opposite effect. Thieves may interpret the presence of an alarm as a sign of valuable items inside.
Interviews with convicted burglars reveal that alarms don’t significantly deter them. EUCPN concludes that alarms aren’t cost-effective—they’re expensive and don’t substantially reduce the risk of burglary.
In Summary
Research indicates that the best and most economical way to reduce burglaries is by making it harder for thieves to access your property.
- Invest in security-rated doors, windows, and entrances—they’re the most effective barriers.
- Collaborate with neighboring businesses to increase vigilance and deter criminal activity.
- Mark your valuable equipment to reduce thieves’ ability to profit from stolen goods.
By taking these proactive steps, you’re not just protecting your business—you’re contributing to a safer community for all.
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