- Install a security system such as alarms, cameras, and motion detectors.
- Control access points with electric mortise locks and lock all doors and windows when the property is unoccupied or during low activity hours.
- Implement key management policies to control the distribution and usage of keys.
- Enhance lighting in all areas, including walkways, parking lots, and entrances.
- Train employees on security and identify potential hazards.
As a bed and breakfast business owner, you are responsible for creating a comfortable and safe environment for your guests. This means going beyond providing top-notch accommodations and services.
Security is a vital aspect that must not be neglected. So, are you taking the necessary steps to keep your guests and business safe? Here are some practical tips to help you improve your bed and breakfast security.
Install a Security System
A security system is an effective way to safeguard your bed and breakfast business. Several options exist, such as alarms, cameras, and motion detectors. These will help you detect any suspicious activities around your property promptly.
Security systems can also serve as a deterrent to potential burglars or intruders. Ensure that the cameras are located in areas where they can capture clear footage and that the alarm has a high enough volume to alert you, your guests, and the authorities.
Control Access Points
Controlling access to your bed and breakfast is vital for maintaining security. Establish a protocol for checking-in guests and monitor visitors closely. One of the best ways to do this is using electric mortise locks on all the exterior doors. This type of lock allows you to control who has access to your business and can be used in combination with a security system. It also helps you track when people enter and leave your property, giving you peace of mind.
Also, keep all doors and windows locked when the property is unoccupied or during low activity hours. Consider installing fences or walls for added privacy and protection.
Implement Key Management Policies
Key management policies are essential for bed and breakfast businesses. It eliminates the threat of unauthorized access by controlling the distribution and usage of keys.
Develop a strict critical management procedure, such as having a logbook for signed actual receipts or using coded locks that can only be opened by authorized personnel. Ensure that all guests return their keys upon checkout and that duplicates are not made without your knowledge.
Enhance Lighting
Lighting is often overlooked when developing a security plan, but it is a crucial part of it. Ensure that your bed and breakfast has adequate lighting in all areas, including walkways, parking lots, and entrances. Bright lights deter potential criminals from lurking around your property and provide visibility for guests arriving late. Install motion sensor lights that activate when it detects movement, saving electricity.
Train Employees
Security training should not be exclusive to you alone. Employees play a vital role in ensuring the security of your bed and breakfast business. The more knowledgeable and prepared your staff is, the better equipped they will be to handle emergencies and prevent accidents.
Identify Potential Hazards
To train your employees effectively, you need to identify potential hazards on your property. This includes everything from slippery floors and faulty wiring to fire hazards and security risks. Once you have recognized these hazards, you can create a thorough training program covering each. Your employees should understand the risks associated with each bet and how to minimize them.
Develop Clear Procedures
In addition to identifying potential hazards, you should develop clear procedures that your employees can follow in an emergency. This includes methods for evacuating the building, administering first aid, and contacting emergency services.
Ensure your employees know these procedures inside and out, and give them opportunities to practice them in simulated scenarios.
Train on an Ongoing Basis
Safety training should not be a one-time event. You should provide ongoing training to your employees to ensure that they stay up-to-date on the latest procedures and techniques.
This is especially important if you change your property or if new hazards arise. Regular training will also help reinforce the importance of safety and ensure that your employees stay engaged.
Use Multiple Training Methods
People learn differently, so it is essential to use multiple training methods to reach all of your employees. This may include lectures, demonstrations, videos, and hands-on exercises. By using various ways, you can ensure that everyone understands the material and feels comfortable with the procedures.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, providing security goes beyond installing an alarm or hiring a guard. A comprehensive bed and breakfast security plan is crucial to creating a safe environment for your guests and staff. By implementing these practical tips, you can improve your business’s security and provide a worry-free experience for your guests, keeping them coming back and recommending you to others. Remember, a secure bed and breakfast business is a successful one.