Preventing Convenience Store Robbery Through Environmental Design
What did the researchers discover?1. Store Layout -- It was better if cash registers were located in the center of the store and there was good visibility in the store. Read a scenario involving this principle. 2. Parking Lots -- There should be better lighting in parking lots. This eliminates dark hiding spots where possible robbers can "case the joint." 3. Lighting -- Not only should parking lots be better lit, but the interior of the store should be brighter. Click here for more information and scenarios about lighting. 4. Staffing -- One controversial finding of the research was that there should be two workers on duty after dark. 5. Window Signs -- Windows should be clear of excessive posters and other signs. Try this yourself. Go outside your store and see if you can see the cash register area clearly from the street. If not, you should think seriously about taking down some of the stuff in your windows. Here is a picture of a store with good visibility through its windows. 6. Cash Handling -- Do not let people know there is a lot of money in the cash register. Consider installing a time-release drop safe to minimize the amount of money a robber could take. Don't count money in front of people. |
What matters to robbers? One study asked them what they think is important when it comes to picking a good target.
Most Important
Least Important This suggests the best way to deter robbers is to minimize the money you have available and block off ways for them to make a speedy get-away. |
