Behind the Sparkle

Feel Secure

Robberies and theft may be a way of life for jewellers, but there are steps you can take to protect your store according to the sales and marketing manager of security company Charter Resources, Geoff Paulsen.

First up, the basics. A reputable alarm system which is monitored by a control room and a duress button which is also linked to a monitoring company, so that once pressed, they can take immediate action.

Camera equipment is also a must, and Paulsen suggests a closed circuit television (CCTV) system which focuses on the store's bench top and counter.

Next on the shopping list would be strong front doors and front windows, preferably made of laminated glass which is capable of stopping a bullet, or a crowbar.

Paulsen also suggests magnetic locks on the doors for jewellers, as they can't be jimmied open.

Another system used in the US and UK is something called 'smoke & cloak' which fills the store with smoke (which is harmless to breathe) when a panic button is activated, or when an alarm goes off. "You can't see you hand in front of your face in about 10 seconds. The theory is you can't steal what you can't see." The robber is disoriented in an unfamiliar environment, whereas anyone in the store would, hopefully, know the layout and make their way out.

Another drastic measure that Paulsen says is used in South Africa is called 'man trap'. The man trap is a perspex corridor where the customer enters, the door locks behind them so they can be checked out before entering the store. Often, he says, these man traps are teamed with security guards who have metal detectors. "I would hate to see this country come to that."

On a more practical note, Paulsen encourages jewellers to have a single area at the rear of the shop where people can try on any goods. This makes it harder for would-be thieves to run out of the store with any jewellery, especially if an employee can lock the door remotely.