How to handle a crime situation
We live in an increasingly violent society; many businesses are becoming more and more vulnerable to criminals. Not so long ago, most businesses believed that robbery, for example, was something that happened to others, never to them. But times have changed, and it is best to be prepared for the day when your business also falls victim to an armed hold-up, an assault, or some other crime...
1. Make safety your first priority.
Armed robbery is on the increase and your safety, and that of your staff and customers, must be your prime consideration. Your responsibility is, first and foremost, to protect people’s lives in a situation where the armed assailant is usually nervous and unpredictable. Take CARE:
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2. Remain calm and controlled.
It’s not easy to remain calm in these circumstances, but if you can take deep breaths, insist that you keep control of yourself, and stay calm, you’ll be better able to cope.
3. Do what the offender tells you to do.
The first few seconds of the encounter is when the offender is most emotional and most likely to be violent. It is imperative that at this time you do what the offender tells you to do. Keep quiet and speak only when spoken to. Do nothing to aggravate the situation. Don’t try to be a hero. There’s a difference between bravery and bravado. The latter can be life-threatening.
If possible, ensure there's a physical barrier between you and the offenders. Raise your hands, the sign of submission. If the offenders can see your hands they will, most likely, be less nervous. Stand side-on to the offender if you can; this reduces your profile and is less threatening to the intruder. Advise the offender of any movements you may have to make, which could appear sudden or unexpected. Activate an alarm, or call for help, only if it is safe to do so.
