Owning a restaurant is a dream for many people, but it’s a dream that comes along with seriously hard work and a great deal of responsibility. As a restaurant owner, it’s critical that you protect your dream by securing your property and assets. Restaurants provide unique security challenges that need to be addressed proactively. Here are five great tips for keeping your restaurant secure and safe.

Screen Your Staff Carefully

According to statistics, 85% of all restaurant robberies are committed by employees. Your staff has access to your money and inventory- hire people you trust! Taking time during the hiring process to carefully screen applicants, including running criminal background checks and calling references, can pay off in increased security. Just as importantly, hold on to good, trusted employees by treating them with respect and care.

Have a High Quality Alarm System Installed

An alarm system is a necessity for any restaurant. It will not only help deter potential criminals, but it will also connect to local authorities should someone attempt to break in. At Fluent Solution, we know that each restaurant is unique and so are its security needs. Contact a Fluent representative today to discuss the best options for a modern, high quality, alarm and video monitoring system.

Avoid Having Employees Open or Close Alone

Employees opening or closing the restaurant alone are significantly more vulnerable to would-be criminals than employees working in pairs or teams. You may have to pay a bit more upfront by paying two employees per shift instead of one, but it’s well worth it since you will be protecting your employees’ safety as well as helping to protect your restaurant from being robbed.

Be Smart About Bank Deposits

Bank deposits should be made often and safely. Frequently depositing cash means that you’re not risking large amounts of money being stolen in a break-in. Aim to be discrete and inconspicuous when making bank deposits. Don’t make your deposits at the same time every day, and avoid calling attention to yourself when heading to the bank. Keep the deposit bags inside a purse or other bag in order to be less obvious.

Keep a Close Eye on Your Inventory

Just because your registers haven’t been robbed, doesn’t mean your restaurant hasn’t been the target of crime. Both inside and outside thieves are known to go for alcohol and other inventory, since they can sell these items for cash or use them themselves, and since this type of theft often goes undetected. Implement a system for keeping regular track of inventory, and be sure to only put trustworthy employees in charge of this task.

Owning a restaurant shouldn’t be a security risk. Follow these tips and you will rest easy knowing that your restaurant is protected and secure.