Shopping malls still remain among the top spots for people of all ages to visit to spruce up their wardrobes and enjoy some entertainment. Malls today often serve as one-stop shops, with theaters, restaurants, and entertainment venues such as mini-golf courses and arcades. While everyone enjoys a fun-filled day at the mall, San Diego security companies know what really happens behind the scenes. Knowing about these six common security risks at shopping malls makes it easier to keep everyone safe.
1. Theft
Theft is one of the biggest security risks at malls. The sheer number of valuable items in a mall is a major attraction for thieves. Security plans should include methods to keep big-ticket items under the control of employees. For instance, locked glass cases work best for protecting jewelry and electronics from theft. Employees and security guards can also keep watch for signs of suspicious activity.
2. Vandalism
Malls tend to attract young people, which can often increase the risk of vandalism. Tagging is preventable with a greater in-person security presence, since teens tend to vandalize areas with low visibility. Outdoor lights also curb vandalism that tends to occur at night.
3. Violent Altercations
Acts of domestic terrorism are the most frightening form of violence that can happen in malls, and mass shooters are more likely to plan attacks in highly populated areas such as food courts. Smaller altercations can also get out of hand. Security guards should always be on the lookout for signs of arguments or conflicts beginning to escalate so they can take immediate steps to calm the situation.
4. Unauthorized Entry
A shopping mall typically has multiple entrances and exits that make it easier for criminals to slip in and out without being noticed. Security systems should include methods to track who comes and goes through the employee entrances and exits, especially people who are carrying large boxes or other types of items that arouse suspicion. Making sure doors are properly secured at night also prevents criminal activity from happening.
5. Lost Children
The combination of distracted parents, enticing toys, and large crowds sets the scene for children to get lost. Security guards can keep a watchful eye out for children who appear to be alone or frightened. Then the guards can act quickly to reunite the children with their guardians. If a parent reports a missing child, the security team can enact specific protocols to make sure no one leaves the building with the lost child.
6. Vehicle-Related Crimes
Some of the biggest threats to mall security begin outside. Thieves often take advantage of people spending hours in malls to break into shoppers’ vehicles. Physical assaults may also occur in large parking lots, especially at night. Security teams can monitor parking lot cameras, patrol the areas, and walk customers and employees to their vehicles to increase safety outside.
If you need a mall security guard in San Diego, reach out to the experienced professionals at Eagle Eye Security. We provide the highest-quality professional guards in the industry. Give us a call at (619) 278-9990 and talk with one of our security experts.