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Protect your gym from potential crime

Published on January 1, 2020

Theft and vandalism claims may have drastic impacts on gymnastics insureds. Results of these activities can have varying impacts on a gym, such as loss of valuable and sentimental property, downtime needed to address corrective measures and repairs and numerous other vulnerability issues that may occur after a loss.  

Two strategies that can help prevent these events include: 

  • Participating in business watch programs 
  • Utilizing Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (C.P.T.E.D.) concepts 

Stop crime with business watch programs

Because of their location, some organizations can be easy targets for burglary and vandalism. Business watch programs, similar to neighborhood watch groups, seek to reduce commercial crime and the fear of crime for both business owners and customers. While the concept is not new, it may benefit from revitalization to support the reduction of crimes against your property. 

To get started, contact your local chamber of commerce. They may provide information on how to launch a business watch program with neighboring merchants or direct you to members already located in your community. 

The Small Business Crime Prevention Guide, published by the Texas Department of Insurance, offers the following ideas to help business owners prevent crime: 

  • Get to know neighboring businesses and occupants including schools, civic groups, libraries and clubs. 
  • Be alert and report suspicious behavior to law enforcement immediately, even if it means taking a chance on being wrong. 
  • A telephone tree is an effective means of sharing information with neighboring businesses. Should a problem develop, each business is responsible for calling others on the tree. 
  • Secure your property thoroughly. Ask local law enforcement officials to conduct a survey of your business and provide advice on lights, alarms, locks and other security measures. 
  • Engrave all valuable office equipment and tools with an identification, tax, license or other unique number.  
  • Aggressively advertise the business watch group. Post signs and stickers stating that the neighboring block of businesses is organized to prevent crime. 

What is C.P.T.E.D.?

C.P.T.E.D. is a way to design and build your physical environment so that it positively influences behavior and reduces crime. People who use C.P.T.E.D.-designed areas perceive them as safe, and would-be criminals see them as highly risky places to commit crimes.  

C.P.T.E.D. defines your physical environment as your property and facilities, as well as your use of landscaping, signage and lighting. You can apply C.P.T.E.D. principles to both new and existing facilities. You can start applying C.P.T.E.D. concepts to your business right now. 

You can learn more about C.P.T.E.D.  by visiting the Markel Risk Solution Services risk navigator using the following link:  

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

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