Businesses warned of threats to vacant premises during coronavirus lockdown
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EMPTY workplaces across Scotland are being seen as potential easy targets for thieves and vandals looking to commit crime.
That warning comes from the Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC) which suggests criminals are keen to exploit the coronavirus lockdown which is leaving most commercial premises empty for extended periods – and a lack of potential witnesses on the streets.
David MacCrimmon is seconded to SBRC from Police Scotland, as its lead for serious and organised crime and counter terrorism and will be available to speak with concerned business owners and keyholders at a free webinar on Thursday at 10am.
He said: “With most of us stranded in our homes, the clear and obvious place that burglars, arsonists and vandals will sadly be looking to will be our empty offices, clubs, bars and shops.
“This could range from a one-off break-in to steal alcohol from a bar, to an organised effort to steal valuable assets.
“But businesses can limit their exposure to the risk – and there are reasonable steps they can still be taking to protect their premises while sticking to lockdown advice. This webinar will give us a chance to fully explain some of those options and for those that sign up to ask questions.”
The session will cover tips on what to remove from premises, what to leave in windows, as well as how and when to safely visit.
Gary Wood, a watch commander with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service seconded to SBRC, will also lead a discussion on fire and safety risks.
He said: “With many businesses temporarily closed due to the current government restrictions on Covid-19, premises may now be unoccupied.
“Fire does not discriminate and can strike at any time including periods of unprecedented situations such as the global pandemic we currently face. But with a number of straightforward steps, it is possible to appropriately manage fire risk within your temporarily vacant premises.
“The watchwords are ‘protect the building – protect the business’. There can be a link between fire risk and criminality in terms of the risk of wilful fireraising.
“This webinar will focus on practical guidance and advice that business owners and managers can use to mitigate those fire risks”
To register for the session, visit https://bit.ly/3efzHkJ
