According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's 2017 crime statistics, residential burglaries dropped by a whopping 12%, but they increased at businesses by 1.2%. This is great news for the homeowner, but alarming for the business owner. While the increase may be nominal, it should make a business owner take pause and assess the current security measures he has in place. Here is what you need to know.

1. Check Your Doors

Many businesses have astonishingly inadequate doors, especially if they don't view themselves as a break-in target or live in a small community. Criminals look for opportunities, regardless of what the potential reward or location might be.

1. Your doors should be metal or a solid core, heavy-duty wood. Hinge pins should be on the inside of the building or non-removable.
2. The door jambs and strike plates should be reinforced steel, so they aren't easily kicked in.
3. A door that only has a doorknob lock is not sufficient. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is responsible for testing locks against the tools of a thief's trade, such as saws and hammers. They can be graded 1, 2, or 3. Each door needs to have a Grade 1 deadbolt, which is the best. The bolt is one inch versus five-eighths of an inch. Grade 1 deadbolts are not available at your local hardware store; you will need to have a commercial locksmith install them.

2. Secure Your Windows

While you have the locksmith there, have them check your windows. Many have locks that are easily pried open. The locksmith may also recommend other security options, such as having them glazed with a burglar-resistant coating.

3. Assess Your Lighting

Both interior and exterior lighting can serve as an excellent burglar deterrent. If your business is well-lighted, inside and out, they are less likely to risk being seen during the time it takes to gain entry and then ransack your business. Backdoors and windows, which typically have less foot and street traffic, should be particularly well-lighted. Exterior light fixtures should be classified as high-abuse. This means they won't be easily destroyed by would-be intruders or vandals. A light fixture that can be reached into and the lightbulb easily removed or broken serves no purpose.

4. Evaluate The Landscaping

Understandably, you want the exterior of your business to look nice and have curb appeal. While hedges may look good and provide privacy, they also provide cover and a hiding place for a thief, especially if they are overgrown. Prune or remove any bushes, shrubs, and hedges that inhibit security.

For more information, check out a website like http://ndsecuritycompany.com today.