One of the most terrifying threats that restaurant owners face is that of robbery. Understanding the nature of a robbery and minimizing the contributing factors to becoming a robbery target are necessary to reduce the likelihood of such a crisis incident.
Analysis of robbery incidents and interviews with convicted perpetrators have shown that robberies are rarely random, and that targets are selected and actions are planned well in advance. One of the largest considerations in selecting a robbery target is the reward versus risk factor. When the risks outweigh the perceived reward, would-be robbers look elsewhere for easier targets.
As part of a comprehensive security program, one of the most effective deterrents is a digital video surveillance system from FocusMicro. Robbers have long known the failings of older analog, time-lapse video recorders and the difficulty that prosecutors have had obtaining convictions based solely on the images from those systems. The crisp, clear images and video segments that can be retrieved from a FocusMicro server can provide positive identification of people and conclusive authentication events.
The most powerful tool at the restaurant owner’s disposal is a well trained and focused staff. Nothing prevents accidents and insures security better than employees who operate like a well oiled machine, operating as directed by safety, security and food processing procedures. Training involves not only the indoctrination of new employees, but also requires constant reinforcement for current employees, as well as educating them with updates and changes.
A FocusMicro digital video server is the newest and one of the most valuable assets in a restaurant’s training program. The crisp and clear images can be used to show “how to” and “how not to” perform tasks. Video clips can be extracted from the digital video server to allow managers to build a montage for a multimedia training presentation. Image snapshots can similarly be captured and used to document events and create reminder posters and teasers.
All restaurants deal daily with many threats to their livelihood. There is no one single answer, nor can any guarantees be made that all threats can be eliminated or prevented. A professional security review and implementation of a detailed and comprehensive security program is essential. A program that includes FocusMicro digital video technology as a key component of the plan will significantly improve the overall effectiveness and efficacy of surveillance measures and reduce the likelihood of a security incident.
