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Rugby World Cup, Rugby World Cup 2019, A&R Security Services, Japan rugby World Cup, Japan, Tourism, Tourist, Rugby

Rugby World Cup: How to stay safe in Japan

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This year Japan plays host to the 2019 Rugby World Cup, seeing countries from both northern and southern hemispheres battling out to win the rugby world cup trophy.

Although Japan has been voted and reported as one of the safest countries in the world to visit, it is still important to remain vigilant.

So, what should you do to keep yourself safe?

Keep your belongings with you at all times

Although Japan is one of the safest countries in the world in terms of criminal activity, there are still pickpocketers. If you are in crowded places such as public transport or moving around a stadium, pickpocketers will see this as an easy opportunity to steal mobile phones, wallets and purses. To ensure that you aren’t targeted by pickpocketers ensure that your mobile phone or wallet is in the front pocket of your trousers and your hand is on top of it. If you have a backpack or handbag, make sure that it is in front of you and you have your hand on the zip or clasp – ensuring that no one can open your bag and reach in.

Scams

It’s important to avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you in any public areas. In neighbourhoods of Roppongi and Kabuki-Cho in Tokyo, there are known reports of fraudulent credit card charges. To avoid charges don’t allow waiters or vendors to make any transactions with your credit card on their own as they can copy information. Keep an eye on your credit card all the time, especially when paying at restaurants, shops and especially in bars.

Watch your drink

Although you are least likely to get kidnapped or mugged, there is that potential risk that someone will try to harm you while visiting a bar or club. If you are visiting a local bar or club or buying a drink at a stadium, ensure that your drink is covered and with you at all times so that it is not spiked. If you are leaving to use the toilet – make sure that your group keep an eye on your drink at all times. If you are getting a new drink, make sure that to watch the bartender – if you see any suspicious activity with your drink leave it and report it to security or other bar staff. Also, if a stranger offers you a drink, kindly decline.

Sexual Harassment

When travelling on public transport between towns and cities during rush hour, there have been noted incidents of men groping women on trains (however, they usually target local women) If you feel that you are being harassed, move to another part of the train or bus. If you still feel unsafe – alight at a station and report it to local authorities.  If you witness any sexual harassment do not ignore it. Report it!

Terrorism

Japan has the lowest risk of terrorism in the world, but it is still important to remain vigilant. If you see any unattended bags in suspicious areas within a stadium, neighbourhood or on public transport move away from it and report it to security or local authorities.

Here are some other tips to keep yourself safe when visiting japan.

  • Ensure your card details are covered –  when taking money out an international ATM it is important your card PIN details are covered so that they aren’t stolen to perform fraudulent charges.
  • If you’re lost ask for directions – if you are unsure of where you are or lost ask either the local police or shop owners for directions. Even though smartphones and tablets are great for downloading map directions, if these get stolen you might want to keep a physical copy of directions to places of safety.
  • Stay up-to-date – When walking around and visiting cities between matches it is important to know what is going on. If you are in a city it’s important to know if any rallies or large events are going on.
  • Take a portable charger – if you’re walking around Japans many attractions or watching a rugby match, it is advisable to take a portable charger with you to avoid having a flat phone battery and being uncontactable if you get separated from your friends.

A&R Security Services has over 40 years of experience in providing professional security solutions in Cardiff. We are professional in what we do and provide SIA trained guards and have a customer-orientated approach to each client. If you would like to find out more about our security solution get in touch with us on 01656 713950 or visit our website for more details.

Hopsitals, Hospital, Hospital Security, Security Services, Security

Is your hospital security at risk?

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In recent years the Welsh NHS has been increasingly under stress despite having increased budgets for a number of its services. Although the NHS is one of the biggest employers in Wales and the UK – it has seen a number of shortages which has had an effect on A&E waiting times and the performance of their services.

With so many relying on the NHS in Wales it is important that healthcare facilities and hospitals can deal with any threats from both patients and employees.

So, there are some questions to consider when implementing security in healthcare facilities and hospitals.

How often are risk assessments conducted?

Carrying out risk assessments is vital to ensure that you can spot potential hazards which could injure patients and staff, cause ill health or leave people in a vulnerable position. By holding regular risk assessments, hospitals can spot potential hazards before they cause major disruptions.

Are my staff subject to violence?

In Wales, alone there have been 18,000 reports of violent attacks, aggression or verbal abuse on staff either from patients or other employees in hospitals.

The most effective way to check that your staff are protected from violent behaviour is to install CCTV systems in areas such as entrance areas, reception areas, waiting areas, outside nurse stations and staff rooms and corridors.

Another way in which the situations can be avoided is by hiring security staff and station them in areas where there may potential for conflict.

Also implementing reporting systems will also help staff to record everything that happens, so evidence can be provided if any legal action is taken.

Are Medicines and hazardous substances secure?

To ensure medicines and hazardous substance are not stolen, ensure that they are locked away in secure cupboards and other secure locations within the building. For added extra security, ensure that doors and cupboards are PIN secured or padlocked when not in use to avoid anything being stolen or tampered with and conducts regular audits to ensure they don’t end up in the wrong hands.

What equipment needs to be updated or secured?

If equipment is outdated or in need of repair, make sure that they are replaced or fixed as soon as possible. Make sure that they are regularly checked and maintained, and any faulty machinery have warning signs to alert staff and patients no to use it.

How Secure are the staff entrances?

Within hospitals there are areas that the public cannot enter. But having doors or corridors without key card scanners or password protected doors can allow the public gain access to confidential records.

Is there help for staff suffering from stress?

Mental health well-being is something that can become compromised especially dealing with stressful situations on a regular basis. It is important to offer staff help if they feel overworked or unable to cope with the challenging demands that they face. Doing so ensure that staff are not overworked and reduce of medical mistakes.

 

A&R Security Services can provide comprehensive security solutions to healthcare facilities in Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bridgend and South Wales. If you are in need to Manned Guarding, Mobile Security or Concierge Services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Robbery, Armed Robbery, Violent Robbery, Robberies, Violent Robberies, Armed Robberies, Violent Crime, A&R Security Services

Violent robbery rise blamed on police cuts and rise in smartphone use

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In recent news, it’s been reported by the BBC that robberies are increasing at a faster rate in England and Wales than in any major developed country.

Within the last year, it’s been found that 269,000 young people were involved in or at risk of violent crime and that the use of smartphones and cuts to police patrols are behind the rise.

Between 2014 – 2018 robberies in England and Wales has increased by 33%, which researchers believed was significant because robbery acted as an entry point for violent crimes. With knife-related robberies increasing by 33%.

Violent crime recorded by police in England and Wales has risen by 19% in the last year – with the number of homicides (including murder and manslaughter) rising from 649 to 739 an increase of 14% since the end of September 2018. This is the highest total for crimes since 2007.

The report run by the BBC suggested that the availability of smartphones are connected to the increase of violent robberies with 8 in 10 people in the UK using them, higher than any country.

It also suggested that pressure on policing after budget cuts to officer posts between 2010 and 2018 was a contributor to the increase and pointed out that only 7% of robbery cases resulted in a suspect being charged compared to 21% four years ago.

Mr Redgrave from Crest Advisory said “ Criminals respond to incentives and if they feel they’re not being effectively policed – often these crimes are opportunistic – we’re likely to see an increase in these types of offences”

However, a spokesperson from the Home office suggested that changes in the way that robberies were logged are partly responsible for the rise in violent robberies.

“We are pleased with improvements in police recording, which have contributed to reported increases in robbery offences” they also added “ We are giving police the tools they need to keep families, communities and our country safe, including recruiting 20,000 new police officers and making it easier for them to use stope-and-search powers”

For more information about the report, robberies or violent crimes visit the BBC News website here.

A&R Security Services provide comprehensive security solutions in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, South Wales and South West. For a free quote call 01656 713950 or visit our website for further details of our security services.

Staying safe at night, personal security, walking at night, staying safe while walking at night, walking alone at night, walking at night, A&R Security Services, A&R Security

Tips for staying safe while walking at night in Cardiff

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Whether it is after a night out with friends or coming home from work, many residences in Cardiff will find themselves walking alone at night. For some living in Cardiff, it is a regular occurrence – for others, it is a far less common thing. Either way, walking at night can be a daunting and slightly scary experience – especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.

To keep yourself safe and to make your night-time journeys a bit more bearable, here are some tips for staying safe while walking at night in Cardiff.

Keep your keys ready

If you’re walking home or to your car, hold your keys in your pocket. Select the one you need and keep it in the proper position so that when you get to your destination you don’t have to fumble for keys and get distracted.

Wear or carry appropriate shoes

A good set of heels can finish the perfect outfit, but they aren’t the most practical to walk in. If you are planning on walking home at some point during your night out and your journey home, try to wear shoes you’re comfortable walking in. If trainers aren’t a realistic option (they don’t fit in your handbag) stash a pair of lightweight pumps, before you go out.

Stick to well-lit areas

During the day it is easy to take shortcuts through side paths,  lanes and parks to get to your destination quicker. But these areas can change during the night and can become perfect places for someone to hide in the dark and attack. It may take longer than normal to get to your destination, but it is important to stick to well-lit areas and densely populated areas such as housing estates. Try to avoid walking through lanes, side paths, parks and open fields.  If you are forced to walk on the road – face traffic coming towards you, meaning both yourself and vehicles will see each other in the night.

Fake it until you get home.

Criminals will often target people who don’t look confident while walking home. If you are someone who feels nervous while walking, try to make yourself look confident, walk tall, take speedy strides and keep your eyes forward (don’t be afraid to make eye contact with those you pass). If you get lost or begin to start to feel panicked don’t change your gait, just head to a nearby store, restaurant or pub so that you can gather your bearings.

No headphones

A lot of us like to walk while listening to music to help calm our nerves (especially during the night) but wearing headphones affects your ability to detect sounds around you. To remain alert, keep your headphones out. This will help you avoid traffic and notice and respond to any unusual sounds.

Phone a friend

Call a friend or family member. If it is early in the night a pleasant chat with a loved one will calm your nerves and let people know where you are. Even if it is very late. If you are genuinely concerned, someone will be happy to take your call. Stay on the phone until you reach your destination and talk them through what is happening.

Worried? Head to a safe place

Even at night, you can use certain places to seek refuge. For example, many bars and pubs will have security officers positioned outside. If you’re worried and such a venue is nearby, walk toward it – the presence of trained security guards and member of the public will deter criminals from targeting you. Other safe places include corner shops and police stations. If you strongly believe that ones if following you, call the police.

A few other tips:

·         Mobile phones can double up as a torch

·         You can carry a whistle around your wrist or hand in case you need to raise an alarm.

·         Regardless of the cost, if you are tired, lost, drunk or distracted take a taxi home.

·         Don’t text or play games on your phone while you walk.

·         Leave valuables – such as Laptops or tablets – at home.

A&R Security Services offer night time manned and mobile security services in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Bridgend and RCT. If you would like to arrange a free quote call 01656 713950

Concerts, Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Security Services , Security, Concert Security, live music

Keeping yourself safe at concerts in Cardiff

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Cardiff is a young city but has a fast-growing creative scene and has proven itself to be one of the best places for live music concerts in the UK. With the Principality Stadium playing host to top musicians such as Take That, Ed Sheeran, the Spice Girls and Pink!

But with recent terror attacks on concerts such as the Ariana Grande Manchester attack, large stadiums such as the Principality Stadium have had to boost and tighten its security measures, to make sure that you the public are safe.  But even with tighter security, there are criminals who are there to ruin your fun. With concerts, thousands of people will be flooding into venues like the Principality Stadium to reach their seats or to get the prime spot by the stage. But with so many people packed in corridors, seats and by the stage – these can present the perfect opportunity for criminals.

So, what can you do to keep yourself safe at concerts?

Take a cheap or older model phone – Now everyone likes to share what they are doing online and take pictures of a once in a lifetime experience. But taking your latest modelled phone to a concert can attract pickpocketers. To prevent them from taking your phone, take an older model or cheaper phone so that you are not worried about it being stolen or going missing.

Take a bumbag or money belt instead – Rucksacks and handbags can easily catch the sight of pickpocketers as these can be easily opened or grabbed in large crowds. So instead take a bumbag or money belt that sits in the front of yourself.

Download ‘Find my Phone’ – Having ‘Find my phone’ can be incredibly useful as you can track it if anyone were to steal your phone.

Sexual harassment and Violence

Sexual Harassments and attacks – In concerts you are in very close quarters and many criminals will try to either sexually harass you or attack you. If you feel pressured into anything, get the attention of either a friend or the concert security staff.

Stay in a group – As mentioned before, you will be in very close quarters with other people visiting the concert and you can easily lose sight of your friends. If you are in a group try to stay close and if you do lose each other in a crowd, arrange to meet at a point outside of the venue at a certain time.

Report it – A lot of people will focus on the act that is performing on stage, but you should still be vigilant of any sexual harassment or violence. If you see anything, report it to the event security or the police. Also, if you see any suspicious activity inside the concert or anyone carrying weapons – report it immediately.

Health

Drugs – If you are drinking at a concert be aware of people trying to spike your drink with illegal drugs. When drinking, make sure that your drink is in front of you or the top is covered by your hand/thumb or cap. Do not accept any illegal high from anyone, no matter how much they try to persuade you.

Hydration – Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Terrorism – As mentioned at the beginning of this blog, terror attacks on concerts have seen an increase and so if you see any suspicious-looking items left, report it to the event security and move away as far as possible.

Call 999 – If you think there is an emergency at the concert call 999 and get the attention of the event security staff with radio mics or walkie talkies.

Don’t accept a stranger’s bag – No matter how nice or normal they look, do not accept a strangers bag or any other object that they may ask you to look after.

Follow emergency instructions – If there is an emergency at the concert you’re attending, keep calm and follow the instructions of the event staff and/or emergency services.

Keep your phone charged – Make sure that your phone is fully charged in case you have to call emergency services. It is also good practise to take a portable charger with you if your phone does run out of charge.

A&R Security Services has 40 years experience in the Security Industry. We can effectively provide both manned and mobile event security to locations across South Wales and the South West. If you would like to know more about our services visit our website for further details or call us on 01656 713950

Bridgend, Business, Business Security, A&R Security, A&R Security Services, Retail, Healthcare, School, Office, Construction, Manufacturing

Bridgend – Guide to protecting your business

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Bridgend is a bustling town with good transport links to two of South Wales’ largest cities Cardiff and Swansea and is close to stunning scenic locations. But like many towns and cities – Bridgend is no stranger to crime. In recent months from June 2018 to June 2019, the total amount of crime reported in Bridgend has steadily fallen from 750-667 being reported.

But this doesn’t mean that business owners in Bridgend should let down their guard and relax. They are still at risk of becoming targets for criminal activities.

So, what strategies can implement to protect your business?

Lock and key:

Having a lock and key is a basic security measure but it works. However, some lock systems can be picked or easily damaged when a large amount of force is used. If you’re installing new doors or locks, make sure that they are British Standard BS3621 and bear the kitemark or are classed a lever 5 mortice deadlock. Alongside using a lock and key, you can also use roller shutters on windows and doors on the front and back of your business. This prevents criminals from looking into your business to see what is available to take but also stops them from damaging your property.

Keyfob/passcode systems:

Mostly used in medium to large premises Keyfob and passcode systems are great at limiting where people can access. For example, if you have a room or section of a building that shouldn’t be open for the public to enter, you can close it off with the use of a keyfob or passcode. This can also be used at the front of the property or by the reception area so that you can monitor who is coming in and out of your business.

 Secure Keyholding:

Many business owners will leave a spare key with a trusted friend or business partner in case of emergencies. But Secure Keyholding services allow security staff to enter your property without anyone else having to be present and check for any disturbances if there has been an alert to one. Also if you are having work carried out of hours and don’t want to pay an employee overtime, your security provider can send someone to let contractors in and also monitor who is entering and exiting your building.

Alarm systems:

Alarm systems are readily available from many DIY stores and security providers such as ourselves. Alarm systems are effective at dissuading criminals at entering your property further by alerting anyone in the vicinity. But be aware, some alarm systems can go off without anything triggering it disturbing neighbours around the area. Most security providers such as ourselves can install and monitor alarm systems, responding to an alarm system going off.

Exterior Lighting:

60% of criminal activity associated with business happens under the cover of darkness. Installing exterior lighting can increase the security of your business – lighting areas of your property that are not normally visible to CCTV or Security Guards. Motion-activated lighting can be a very effective deterrent as any motion can activate the light making criminals feel exposed and caught.

Manned/Mobile Security:

Having security guards at your business is an effective deterrent to criminals. Manned guarding allows you to position guards in key areas such as front of house, access points and blind spots. Mobile guards allow you to have guards patrol your business at scheduled or unscheduled intervals putting criminals off from attempting to enter your property. Mobile guards can patrol your business externally and internally and can quickly respond to any emergencies or suspicious behaviour.

CCTV:

CCTV is frequently used in businesses throughout Bridgend and can be monitored either manually or remotely. Depending on the system you are using – you can place a number of cameras around the outside and inside of your property in inconspicuous areas. CCTV allows either yourself or your security guards to monitor for any suspicious activity and can quickly respond to any disturbances.

A&R Security Services are providers of commercial security solutions. From alarm installations and monitoring to manned and mobile guarding, we can provide professionally tailored services with that personal touch. For more information about our security services – visit our website or call 01656 713950

Pride, Cardiff Pride, Cardiff, LGBTQ, Security, Event Security, Event, Security Services, A&R Security Services

How to keep yourself safe during pride!

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Pride is the biggest celebration of the LGBTQ community in the world and every year Cardiff celebrates with a massive two-day event spectacle within the heart of the city.

If pride is your first event or you’re a veteran, keeping your personal security in mind is important. There are a number of potential risks and threats, so it’s always best to be prepared for anything that may ruin your experience.

If you’re worried about your personal security, then take a look at our guide on staying safe at pride.

Theft:

Consider bringing a cheaper or older model phone which is unlikely to get stolen. 

Take a bumbag or money belt rather than a rucksack or a handbag as criminals will catch sight of these and attempt to open or take them – especially in crowded areas.

Disposable cameras may be a thing of the past, but they are less of a target to criminals compared to expensive digital camera’s or phones. If you cannot get hold of a disposable camera, take an older model camera. 

Never leave your valuables unattended even for a few minutes. If you are sat with a group of friends, make sure that all of your bags are in the middle of the group. If you need to leave to get food or use the toilet, ask one of your friends to keep an eye on your bag.

Download ‘Find your phone’ on your smartphone so if someone did steal your phone, you can track it and hopefully get it back securely.

 

Sexual Harassment/attacks:

If you feel pressured into anything sexual or get harassed, get the attention of the event security staff who should be on-site 24/7, or tell a friend where you are immediately.

Stay in groups of friends and never walk away on your own, even if you know the layout of the event grounds.

If you see something which classes as sexual harassment or violence, report it to the event security or police right away – don’t just walk away.

 

Anti-social behaviour:

Stay out of arguments or fights and report anything which gets out of hand to event security.

If you feel uncomfortable in an area of the event, move somewhere else away from arguments or anti-social behaviour.

Report anything suspicious to event security staff or call 999 in an emergency – such as people in possession of weapons.

Respect other event-goers so don’t try to get a good spot for a performance – everyone is there for a good time and to feel safe.

 

Health

Do not accept illegal highs from anyone – no matter how much that person is trying to convince you.

Stay hydrated and eat well.

Weather in the UK can be unpredictable so make sure you have adequate outerwear such as pack-away raincoats and daps.

Carry a first aid kit with you for minor injuries such as cuts, grazes and stings.

 

Terrorism:

Report any suspicious activity, bags or objects to event security or police and get far away as possible.

If you think there is an emergency, call 999 and look out for event security staff who have walkie-talkies or radio mics

If something does happen – keep calm and follow instructions from event staff/emergency services.

Keep your phone charged in case you need to make an emergency call and let people know that you are safe.

 

Holiday Home, Holiday Home Security, Security Services, Security, A&R Security Services, A&R Security

Guide to Holiday Home Security

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A holiday home is a great investment if you want somewhere to get away from the hustle and bustle of a busy life. So keeping your holiday home safe and secure is paramount, especially if it is not occupied for most of the year.

So, what can you do to keep your property safe?

Keep your property under lock and key:

Good security should start with the basics and having a lock and key is important to keep your property safe. But as all property owners know a lock can be easily picked and keys can be copied. When taking on any new property especially a holiday home, make sure you install a lock that bears the Kite symbol (comes under British Standard BS3621) or is classed as a five-lever mortice deadlock. Some insurers may require you to have your windows fitted with key-operated locks to insure the contents of your property over a certain amount. If your property has shutters some insures may ask if they have internal catches.

Alarm systems:

Alarm systems aren’t a requirement for insurers unless the contents of the property are of high value. But installing one will give you peace of mind. Installing an alarm system is a great way of deterring criminals, however, some alarm systems will activate without anything triggering them, and so you may upset a few neighbours if it goes off and you’re not there to deactivate it. If you do install an alarm system and live far away, consider leaving a key and your alarm code with someone local and who you can trust or have a security firm to monitor your system.

If you’re renting the property during peak season or even out of season, make sure to leave clear instructions on how to operate the alarm and what to do if something does go wrong. Encourage guests to lock all windows and doors before leaving the property for the day. It may also be worth installing a lockbox or small safe so that guests can store their valuables away.

CCTV :

CCTV is a great way of monitoring the perimeter of your property while you’re not there. Reputable security firms can offer and install a range of CCTV systems that would suit your needs. Some CCTV systems can connect to the internet allowing you to remotely monitor your property. If you have a CCTV system installed by a security firm, ask if they do surveillance monitoring.

Security Lights:

Security lights are readily available from any DIY store and are an easy solution to deter criminals from your property. Security lights come in a variety of light options and are triggered by movement, making them perfect for making thieves feel like they have been caught in the act. Security lights are very effective if you are in view of other properties.

Time Switches:

Time switches are extremely useful for creating the illusion that someone is home – even when they aren’t. If you’re leaving your holiday home empty for a period of time,  install time switches to turn lights on during certain times in the evening so that it looks like someone is home.

Be careful of what’s on show:

Thieves will often look through windows and see what is available for them to take. When the property is empty of occupants (whether that is for a short or long period of time) make sure that valuable items such as phones, laptops, money and keys are out of sight. Also when leaving make sure that all windows and doors are locked and any garden tools and ladders are put away and locked out of sight, so that an intruder cannot enter your property.

Speak to your neighbours:

When buying a holiday home, it is always good to introduce yourself to your neighbours. When you talk to them, mention that your property will be unoccupied for long periods of time. When you’re not there, leave contact details with them so that they can get in touch with you if anything happens or there is suspicious behaviour around your property.

Insurance:

Getting the right insurance is important to protect your property. When buying a holiday home, seek specialist advice from a holiday home insurer – whether your property is in the UK or abroad. Many who own holiday homes will seek advice from their main home insurance providers but this would result in adapted policies that would restrict you, especially if your property is going to be empty for months at a time. In the end, it is best to consult with an expert in holiday home insurance who can offer policies to suit holiday homeowners particular needs.

If you would like to know more about our security services or would like to have a free quote, call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website for more details

Cardiff, Tourism, Security, Security Services, A&R Security Services, Tourist, Personal Security, Pickpocketing, Pickpocketers, Personal Security

Staying Safe in Cardiff – Tourist Guide

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Cardiff may be one of the youngest cities in the UK but it is a bustling metropolitan city steeped in Celtic history, boasting a medieval castle, a thriving creative arts scene and sporting stadiums that play host to top international sporting events.

With a population of 470,000, Cardiff sits in South Wales near neighbouring cities Newport and Swansea. As the largest city in Wales, Cardiff has the highest crime rate in the country with 4317 crimes reported in May 2019.

This presents tourists with a dilemma. Cardiff offers plenty of attractions – on the other hand, is visiting them worth the risk? The UK is generally a very safe place to visit, meaning that even with the most dangerous areas – the UK is a safe place to visit in global terms.

However, like any large city – there are certain things that you need to be aware of when visiting Cardiff.

So here are some tips and precautions for keeping yourself safe.

Try and avoid looking overly touristy- Criminals such as pickpocketers look for easy targets all the time and tourists come under that category. When walking around, make sure that you’re not standing to look at maps and that your camera or smartphone is in a bag out of sight and not dangling around your neck or sticking out of a pocket.

In crowded areas such as buses and trains keep your wallet or phone in front pockets (and place your hand on it) or keep your handbag or backpack closed and have it in front of you.

Don’t flaunt expensive belongings such as cameras, smartphones, jewellery or cash in public. Keep them safe in ether your front pockets or tuck them inside the pockets of your bag instead of the outside where they can be easily reached and stolen.

Be cautious around ATMs. When using an ATM make sure that there is nothing suspicious around the card reader or above the keypad or screen. When typing your pin make sure that it is shielded and when withdrawing cash make sure that you aren’t carrying too much cash around.

If you’re planning on going out at night, avoid walking and instead opt for public transport or a taxi. If you do have to walk, stick to well-lit areas.

If you are in need of directions or help, approach either a police officer or shop owner. Even though smartphones and tablets are great for downloading map directions, if these get stolen you might want to keep a physical copy of directions to places of safety.

Wearing expensive and designer clothes or accessories can make you a more likely target to criminals so opt for cheaper clothing and accessories when out and about.

Stay connected and up-to-date. Whether it’s using mobile data on your smartphone, hotel wifi or Wifi hotspots, keep up-to-date with what is happening in the city during your stay.

It’s good to read up on any protests or large events such as international Rugby matches occurring during your stay. Keeping up-to-date with current affairs/news stories in Cardiff will go a long way to you feeling safe travelling in and out of the city.

Take a portable charger with you and charge up your device enough so that you won’t run out of battery.

In Cardiff, around 43 cases of pickpocketing were reported to South Wales police in May 2019. To prevent yourself from being stolen from:

  • Prepare properly – whenever you have documentation with you, make sure that you have a copy in your hotel room and keep them separate from the originals.
  • Don’t carry valuables such as laptops and tablets. These are best left in your room inside a locker or safe.  If your room doesn’t have a locker or safe, keep them out of sight under clothing in either a suitcase or bag.
  • Secure your bag from pickpocketers. Pickpocketers will avoid creating a disturbance and it suits them better to separate you from your valuables quickly and efficiently. Making yourself an obstacle can put pickpocketers off. If you are sat outside a cafe or restaurant, loop a strap around your arm, leg or chair.
  • Consider using a money belt. A money belt is a fabric pouch on an elastic strap that fastens around your waist. They’re ideal for carrying documents, cash and personal identification and can be worn underneath clothing.
  • Stay vigilant when travelling. Pick Pocketers will try and confuse unsuspecting travellers. So be wary of arguments, fight or jostling occurs on public transport. Watch for crowds as these present targets and escape routes to thieves. When standing to leave public transport, be alert as this is the perfect time for a grab and run.

Tourist tips:

If you’re visiting from outside of the UK be aware that traffic drives on the left side of the road. When crossing busy roads use designated crossings and cross when the green man is shown. Also, be vigilant to look left and right before crossing any roads.

If you are planning to visit the many bars and restaurants in Cardiff, don’t accept drinks from strangers. Make sure that your bags and coats are safely under the table. If you are there with friends, check up on them by phone or text to make sure that they have gotten home safely.

Cardiff is host to many street food festivals and street food stallholders. If you decide to use one, make sure that they are displaying a vendors license on their cart.

A&R Security Services has over 40 years of experience in providing professional security solutions in Cardiff. We are professional in what we do and provide SIA trained guards and have a customer-orientated approach to each client. If you would like to find out more about our security solution get in touch with us on 01656 713950 or visit our website for more details.

 

Construction Site Security, Security, Construction Site, construction

Construction Site Security – A guide to securing your building site

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Construction sites are prime targets for criminals and are prone to several vulnerabilities, all of which can be protected with effective security measures.

One item that is always at a high risk of theft is machinery. Theft of machinery such as backhoes, generators and excavators can be called ‘Low Risk’ by criminals for a number of reasons. Construction sites are often easy to access, especially if a site has light security, meaning that criminals are less likely to be caught. Second, machinery themselves have very few security features. Some may have a one-key fits all ignition system making them easy targets. Unlike other vehicles, construction vehicles are not registered and when stolen can make them difficult to track, making them easy to sell on with very little consequences.

With the price of metals increasing, the risk of them being stolen also increases. Copper tubing and wire cable, in particular, have been targeted by thieves. Fuel too has been a target for criminals – whether it’s been stolen from storage tanks or from the vehicles themselves.

When construction sites have been left unattended for a period of time, they can become targets for vandalism and arson attacks. Both of these can occur for a number of reasons, notably political objections to the site’s construction or just a desire to cause violence.

Constructions sites aren’t always creating new buildings. When construction is taking place on an existing building, there is a risk of intruders breaking in throughout the building site, which may create new points of entry or compromise existing ones.

To help determine which of these threats a building site is particularly vulnerable to, construction managers should carry out a thorough risk assessment. For each potential threat, managers should rate the site and determine which areas are in most need of protection. The best way to identify these areas is to have an onsite-security survey by a security expert.  A&R security services offer a range of security services including manned guarding and mobile security, creating an effective deterrent to any criminals.  

It’s important that Construction sites should go through the appropriate lengths to keep their site secure from criminals. Thankfully there are extensive and effective measures that can be put in place to keep your site protected.

So, what measures can be put in place?

Security guards are an effective way of deterring any potential criminal activity. Having security guards not only allows you to place them in areas that are likely to be entered by criminals, but you can also have them patrol the site – covering all areas. This is especially helpful overnight or when the site is unattended for a period of time.  We at A&R Security services can provide manned guarding services to properties that require guarding 24/7, deterring any criminals from attempting to vandalise or steal from your site. 

CCTV is frequently used by all business especially ones that are in retail. CCTV can be used as an effective deterrent for a construction site-based crime. Placing security cameras around the perimeter of a building site will discourage criminals but also identify any who to try to either vandalise or steal from your site.

CCTV can be an effective way for Security guards to monitor but also rapidly respond to any infiltrations. CCTV can also be used in court to help prosecute any offenders who manage to steal or damage the site.

Lighting may not be always associated with security, but it can make a huge difference to the safety of a construction site. Illuminating areas such as site entrances at all times for smaller sites – with larger sites illuminating areas that can act as entry points can discourage criminals from potentially intruding on your site.  Illuminating areas can also help CCTV and Security guards identify perpetrators or other threats that are on your construction site.

Although security alarms are normally installed permanently to protect properties, temporary burglar arms are highly effective in securing construction sites.  Larger sites can benefit from intruder alarms, which will draw guards’ or workers attention to a break-in that may have otherwise gone unnoticed. Installing a burglar alarm during the construction phase will provide you with the option to easily repurpose it later.  A&R Security Services can install but also remotely monitor your alarm systems and respond to any intrusions on your property.

Ideally, the exterior of a construction site should be so secure that specific on-site security measures wouldn’t be needed. However, ensuring optimum safety is important to give vehicles, fuel stores and other on-site equipment their own protection. Larger machinery such as tower cranes should be secured at the base with a combination of lock and padlocks. Secure safes can also be used to secure keys to vehicles or important documents that may need to be kept onsite 24-7. 

A&R Security Services offer a range of security services that can be tailored to your business needs. If you would like to find out more about our services or would like a quote call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website