If you are like most storage unit operators, you are constantly looking for ways to boost security within your premises. The fact that storage units are common among individuals and businesses means they always host a variety of valuable inventory that could be worth tens if not hundreds of thousands of dollars. This realization alone makes storage units attractive to thieves.
In the sections below, we’ve discussed some security measures you can take to minimize theft, as well as the role of your employees in enhancing security and how well you can respond to theft incidents. Keep reading to learn more.
Why Thieves Target Storage Facilities
Over the years, theft and vandalism in storage units have become rampant, with people losing their most expensive items. These incidents are often attributed to poor security measures the storage unit operators put in place. And while this is often true, it’s worth noting that there are several other reasons why thieves target storage facilities.
In cases where theft cases are common, the storage facilities are often a couple of containers with poor locking systems and inadequate security facilities or personnel. This makes it easy for thieves to break in. Here are the other reasons why thieves may target a storage facility:
- Unrestricted 24-hour access to the storage unit. That means thieves have enough time and freedom to study the area, from the physical barriers available, security systems in place, and even the tools they need to complete their job.
- Unmonitored security systems. Most storage facilities install outdated surveillance systems with no real-time footage or security personnel either on-site or monitoring the systems remotely.
- Storage units are located in high-risk areas. Another possible reason some storage facilities record high theft cases is that they are located in areas prone to security issues. Such storage units are often cheaper to rent, but the risks of losing expensive items are high.
Sometimes the incidents occur because of negligence on the part of the employees. Or the tenants may unknowingly disclose the details of their storage unit (often valuables) to a malicious third party, making their unit(s) a target for organized criminals. And regardless of the situation, strong security measures can help minimize losses from theft incidents.
Security Measures to Take
Typically, you want to deploy some security measures to safeguard your storage facility from vandalism and theft. The security of your storage property depends on three key factors. These are technology, personnel, and physical restriction. We’ve discussed them below.
Technology
It’s hard to imagine a modern storage property without the appropriate security technologies. This often means having CCTV cameras, alarm systems, lighting & motion detection systems, and some automation. For instance, you can use an automatic gate design with enhanced security and safety features. Such a gate design could allow for remote control access and may be accompanied by other security measures such as identity verification.
The only challenge is that these technologies increase the risk of cyberattacks. If the system or software controlling your automatic gate or security and alarm systems becomes compromised, the attackers may go away with valuables, cause damage or even steal critical data. Therefore, paying keen attention to the cybersecurity aspect of your tech systems and installations is necessary.
Personnel
Having the right tech in place is never a silver bullet. You still need the right team of personnel, from everyday employees to security professionals. Typically, you want to hire the best talents that are self-motivated and committed to your company’s values and purpose. That would make your work much easier since every one would work towards a greater goal. As you advance your security system, ensure you are upskilling your security talents and everyone else in the company. This will help seal any loopholes that could compromise your security.
Physical Restriction
Last but not least is to invest in high-quality physical infrastructure, from a concrete fence to robust metallic gates. Simple installations such as a chain-link fence or bar gates are ineffective in keeping thieves and organized criminals away. You should also have some identity verification measures to ensure only the right personnel can access specific sections within the premises. Having a security guard on site can also help enhance surveillance and ensure no unauthorized access to your storage facility.
The Role of Staff in Keeping a Storage Facility Secure
As noted earlier, choosing the right personnel can help enhance security within your storage unit. But how can they ensure your storage facility is safe and secure? Below are the key roles your employees play:
- Enforcing various security measures. Your employees are responsible for implementing major security changes and decisions.
- They should remain vigilant at all times. They should monitor the premises regularly and even customer or visitor behaviors using surveillance cameras.
- Respond to customer concerns. Some clients may have unique needs and even concerns about the safety or security of their items. Employees should listen to these clients, understand their needs and act on them appropriately.
- Building trust amongst themselves and clients. Your employees are the backbone of your storage facility and are in charge of creating an environment that promotes security, awareness, confidence, and trust between teams and customers.
Now that you know your employees play a crucial role in enhancing security in your storage facility, you want to invest in them as much as possible. You can do this by supporting their well-being, raising their pay, introducing flexible working schedules, etc.
Responding to a Theft Incident
In case of a theft incident at your storage facility, your first response would typically be to try to recover the lost items. However, this may not always work since you are more likely to be reactive, which could worsen the situation and, even worse, damage your reputation. Typically, you should have a crisis or incident response plan that’s solid enough to help you navigate the theft incident.
Depending on how and when the theft occurred, you should immediately follow up and fix the possible cause to prevent similar incidents. The next move is to communicate with the affected tenants and inform them of what you are doing to recover the lost items. You also want to ensure you can compensate them for the damages or loss incurred. Taking responsibility and being proactive and honest are crucial to surviving a theft incident.
Your crisis response plan should be diverse enough to cover all possible incidents. Theft is just one possibility; several other risks could lead to a crisis. The goal is to be always prepared. Where possible, seek guidance from a disaster management professional or a competent risk manager.
Other Theft Prevention Measures
Besides the factors we discussed above, you can do several other things to minimize the risk of theft in your storage unit. These include:
- Lighting up all the areas around your storage facility. Where possible, have redundant lighting systems, preferably installed to avoid easy access or damage. Well-lit areas discourage thieves as they can easily be noticed or identified. It also provides better visibility for CCTVs.
- Conducting a thorough background check on your candidates before hiring. In some cases, theft occurs with the help of a rogue employee. You can minimize the risk of hiring the wrong candidate by doing proper background checks on every applicant.
- Rethinking your company policies. Strict and no-tolerance policies around security can help minimize laxity and negligence among employees. It also enhances accountability as every employee becomes motivated to do their part.
- Tracking inventory. Placing hidden sensors on valuable items can help with recovery efforts in case of theft incidents.
Make Security a Priority in Your Storage Unit
Some of the best storage units are built or designed to be robust, secure, and reliable. To keep your storage facility safe, you want to understand your neighborhood and the risks of theft or vandalism.
Regardless of your storage unit, you should prioritize security by implementing the tips we have highlighted above. Feel free to mix & match the various security measures above until you find what works best for your storage unit.
