In recent weeks, two jewelers (in Amsterdam and Utrecht) became victims of ram-raiding attacks. Criminals blew out the shop fronts with solid explosives. The structural damage to both jewelers and the surrounding buildings is enormous. Unfortunately, this type of attack is becoming increasingly common. And not only at ATMs. Fortunately, there are solutions that can limit damage and make it more difficult for criminals to enter.
Limiting the damage of an explosion
Naturally, there are doors and walls that can withstand explosives. However, these are quite costly and invasive measures. Much less invasive are explosion-resistant slats, which can be installed in (existing) windows or shop windows. They look like and can be used as regular sun-blocking vertical slats, but also absorb the pressure wave from an explosion. During an explosion, the slats immediately close (automatically). The window on the outside may shatter into thousands of fragments, but the slats keep all these fragments and other debris outside. The slats are also very suitable for jewelers because when closed, they form a barrier and thus stop intruders.
Early detection increases the chance of capture
The greatest risk for the criminal is being caught and severely punished. To increase the chance of capture and enable police response as quickly as possible, it is important to detect an attack as early as possible. With vibration detectors and (clearly visible) cameras, for example. If the cameras are well positioned, there will at least be good camera footage of the perpetrators and their preparations after an attack. When a burglary alarm is forwarded to a control room, the control room can verify the alarm and immediately forward it to the police. They can then follow the burglary on screen via Live View. This way, the police always have the most current information. This can only work if the cameras have not failed due to the force of the explosion…
Zone-based security slows down criminals
In addition to the explosion-resistant slats at the front of the building, it is also worth considering placing a second barrier further into the building – and only if your building is deep enough. For example, in the form of an (explosion-resistant) roller shutter. You can use the space behind this roller shutter to store the more valuable jewelry and watches. Should intruders manage to enter the building, this additional barrier ensures they are delayed again. Besides these delaying structural measures, it is equally important to properly store the most valuable and therefore most attractive jewelry and watches after closing hours in a certified burglary-resistant safe (room). Logically, this is located behind the other barrier(s). This way, there are different security zones in the building; we call this compartmentalization. Each transition (barrier) to the next zone causes further delay for the intruders. Finally, a fog generator is also suitable for delaying intruders. This generator blows so much fog inside in a short time that the criminals become completely disoriented and can no longer see what they want to steal.
Customization
The measures mentioned above are just a few examples of the possibilities. What is needed and possible in your situation depends on your specific risks, circumstances, and budget. Our security experts can provide you with expert tailored advice. Contact us today!