Armed Holdup Prevention

These recommendations suggest security precautions for premises where it is necessary to handle cash openly during trading hours.

Various security devices which are available will not prevent an armed robbery from taking place. However, they can assist in deterring a robber, make identification easier and ensure a prompt police response. Of course, no security system is really valuable, unless staff know exactly what to do if an armed holdup should occur. Staff training is, therefore, extremely important.

Finally, the security measures provided should be related to the value of the amount of cash involved.

ASSIST IN THE PREVENTION OF A SUCCESSFUL HOLDUP

Organise an education programme to ensure that staff are familiar with what is likely to occur during a hold-up and to further ensure that a standard procedure is followed once a hold-up occurs.
Office Managers should be responsible to see that their staff carry out the proper procedure in the event of a holdup.
Design (with Police advice) and distribute to all branches and agencies a standard form for completion by each staff member immediately after a holdup takes place. (At present, some organisations do use a type of form commonly known as a "Bandit Description Form")
Staff must be constantly alert to watch for suspicious persons, motor vehicles, or incidents likely to be connected with a future hold-up (Complacency and a "It won't happen to us attitude" is the greatest advantage the bandit has). Notify Police of any suspicious circumstances inside or outside premises.
Report all suspicious circumstances for further action as necessary (Rarely would a hold-up take place without proper observations being made by the bandit. It is known that often female accomplices have entered premises solely to count the staff and take a mental picture of the layout.)
Members of staff who arrive first to open premises must ensure that normal conditions prevail.
All rear entrances must be kept locked at all times and fitted with door viewers or closed circuit TV cameras.
Early or late admissions, before the office opens or after hours, must prove positive identification before doors are opened to admit them. Be aware of bogus technicians and trades people.
Do not hold more money than is necessary, any excess cash should be removed to the safe or strong-room.
Ensure that the office staff are familiar with the operation of any alarm system or camera installed in the premises.
Provide adequate escort of cash from one-branch or agency to another, or to the bank.
Employees must not discuss the movement or holdings of cash or other security arrangements with any outside person.
Management should consider the employment of security staff to visit branches at regular intervals to gauge security consciousness and offer advice.
Management should appoint a staff member to maintain liaison with the local police crime prevention officer.

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