Merriam-Webster says security is the quality or state of being secure, such as freedom from danger, fear, or anxiety. For our discussion, we will focus on theft or, more specifically, loss prevention. Depending on where you search, you’ll find statistics about retail or facility loss ranging from 10 to 40%. Most corporations understand and expect to lose a percentage of their inventory out the front and back door and build this into their budget. In the case of personal property in senior living communities, it’s difficult to ask residents or staff to accept an “acceptable percentage of shrink.” It’s even more critical when it comes to a pharmacy, where product accountability is paramount.
There are basic and proven tactics to reduce the occurrence of theft. Prevention should not be an expectation since prevention is really a fallacy. Our goal is reduction. Having this mindset and understanding the reporting and prosecution process will save disappointment and frustration.
Our job should be to create an environment that is not conducive to loss, be vigilant to suspicious behavior, and be willing to notify authorities at the first sign of trouble.
Here are the 9 simple ways to reduce theft in senior living communities:
1. Lighting
Interior and exterior lighting is a cost-effective deterrent to theft. Regularly survey the area during daylight and nighttime hours to ensure furniture, curtains, or décor aren’t interfering with the lighting. Exterior examination should include checking tree cover, shrubbery, and parked vehicles to ensure they don’t create poorly lit areas.
2. Landscaping
Prune trees and shrubs to reduce natural camouflage. Trim shrubbery below the waist or window sill level to allow observation of less common entry points. Ensure landscaping doesn’t obstruct camera views.
3. Cameras and Recording
Cameras are a deterrent and a great observation tool. The ability to record and store footage turns your observation system into an evidence-collection system. Ensure residents’ privacy, control who can access video, and consider cloud storage options.
4. Locks and Alarms
Locks and alarms keep honest people honest. Invest in high-quality locks and alarms, carefully manage who gets a key or code, and regularly update keys and alarm codes to reduce unauthorized access.
5. Inventory Management
Routine inventory of assets, medication, and food demonstrates monitoring and awareness. This reduces the likelihood of theft simply because it’s easy. A regular inventory process helps keep track of critical and semicritical assets.
6. Personal Property Storage
Provide and encourage the use of employee lockers. Staff should have a secure area to store their property, reducing the chance of items disappearing. Secure storage for resident valuables is also important.
7. Medication Management
Limit access to the dispensing area and maintain an organized workspace. Implement strong controls for waste and returns, such as witnessing all waste logging and securely storing waste until disposal.
8. Visitor Management
Track the ingress and egress of vendors, family, and third-party caregivers. A system like Accushield records when a person arrives and leaves, helping during events such as evacuations. Knowing who is on your premises is crucial for crime prevention.
9. The Buddy System
Have two employees work in critical areas where money is handled, medication is distributed, or valuables are moved. This practice reduces mistakes and the chance of one employee being victimized by a criminal.
These nine tips will help you and your community. We encourage you to build a relationship with your local authorities, which will help you understand the need to report suspicious behavior or criminal activity promptly. Local law enforcement can also provide valuable training and support.