Business Watch

The Thornton Business Watch is a FREE crime-prevention program that takes the neighbors-looking- after-neighbors’ concept to the commercial level, creating partnerships between businesses and law enforcement to reduce crime in our community

The program philosophy is simple: take control of what happens in your business community. By taking control through teaching businesses how NOT to be a target, you lessen your chances of becoming a victim.

The goal of the program is to actively reduce and prevent crime through cooperation and education. Programs vary according to need; however, successful groups adhere to these fundamental steps:

• Promote communication and understanding between law enforcement and merchants.

• Encourage and enhance cooperation among merchants.

• Teach merchants to prevent crime on their own properties, watch over neighboring businesses, and document and report suspcious activity.

• Develop a telephone tree and/or email distribution list to quickly disseminate information about area crime.

• Develop signals to activate in adjacent businesses when someone needs help.

In-house loss prevention personnel are a great asset, but most businesses have another great asset they tend to overlook – their cashiers, clerks and floor personnel. The Business Watch program focuses on teaching personnel how to be observant and aware. They are a business’ front line and the greatest resource for crime prevention. This program is being established to create a safe, secure environment for businesses, employees and shoppers.

Topics covered in training include: How to be a Good Witness, Shoplifting Prevention, Personal Safety and Building Security.