Date: January 18, 2011, 11:39 AM
Release Number: 201150
Released By: Cst. TishaRae Stonehouse
Occurrence Number:
, Saskatoon Police Service
Subject: Public Advisory - Small Business Owners And Armed Robberies
Saskatoon Police are investigating a number of armed robberies which have occurred since December 11, 2010. Fourteen armed robberies have occurred primarily to convenience stores and gas bars in the north west part of Saskatoon. Although this number is not unusual, investigators believe that the same suspect or suspects may be responsible for more than one incident.
Police are encouraging business owners and employees to consider the following steps in order to deter becoming a victim of this crime.
1. Be alert to suspicious people, activity, and vehicles around your business.
2. The best deterrent of crime is really good customer service - do not be afraid to approach someone who appears to be loitering in the store and adopt a policy of asking customers to remove clothing that conceal a person's face.
3. Keep emergency numbers readily available.
4. Move display shelves away from windows to maintain good visibility inside and out. Employees can better keep an eye on suspicious persons and someone outside may notice if a robbery does occur.
5. Advertise a cash control policy. Adopt a cash limit and deposit excess in a safe.
6. Install and advertise surveillance cameras. They serve as a deterrent and provide evidence should a crime occur.
7. Instruct employees to follow the robber's instructions. Employees should hand over the money or items being demanded. They should not attempt to fight back.
8. Employees should try to observe and remember the robber's description and vehicle if one is used including a plate number.
9. Lock the doors following a robbery, notify police and avoid touching any areas of evidence.
More information and safety tips for small businesses can be found on the Saskatoon Police website at www.saskatoonpoliceservice.ca by accessing 'downloads' on the home page. Anyone with information is asked to contact Police at 975-8300 or Saskatoon Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.