5
SMALL BUSINESS MONTH - SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2026
Waldner also recommends that businesses conduct regular maintenance around the exterior of their location. He says a shop that looks like it is unattended often becomes a target for thieves because it gives them the impression that the owner doesn’t care much about it. Interior and exterior security cameras have become a must-have item for businesses. Waldner says businesses need to make sure they have enough cameras and they are located in wherever neces - sary to ensure there are no “blind spots.” He also recommends that businesses invest in quality cameras rather than simply looking for the best deal. “You can’t just go buy some system that you think is going to work. You’re better off spending a little bit more money so it’s got night vision and you can actually make out the suspect if they come onto your property. You might as well make it worthwhile so that it will actually help the police if they’re going to investigate after the fact,” he says. Another possible deterrent small business owners might want to con - sider is mobile security checks conducted by uniformed personnel. Waldner says such checks often deter would-be thieves from breaking into a business because there is a much higher risk of them being caught. Although it can be an expensive option for some small business owners, he says it can be made more afford - able for locations such as strip malls or business centres where businesses can paid for it on a cost-sharing basis. Hardening a storefront to resist any kind of forced entry is also an important consideration. That includes installing measures such as shatter-proof windows, crash-rated bollards and reinforced doors and hardware. Waldner also recommends regular inspections of all doors, windows and locks to make sure they are in working order. Waldner says the worst thing a small business owner can do is think their business is not at risk of being broken into. “Take whatever measures you can because if you secure your fa - cility well, that’s definitely going to deter a thief much more than if they think nobody’s there or nobody’s watching.” ● We need to stop treating retail theft as a victimless crime.” — Loren Remillard, president and CEO of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce
NEW AFRICA / ADOBE STOCK
Create health coverage customized for your company, needs and budget. From a few to a crew – get group benefits
Benefits can include: • health and dental, including virtual health services • prescription drugs • vision • employee assistance (counselling) • health spending • wellness spending • disability
• life insurance • accidental death and dismemberment • critical incident • travel health • organizational assistance • and more!
Less than 3 employees? Consider a Manitoba Blue Cross personal health care plan to suit the needs of your company, employees and budget.
Let us be your trusted health and wellness partner.
Learn more and request a quote:
mb.bluecross.ca
®The Blue Cross symbol and name and Colour of Caring are registered marks of the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans, independently licensed by Manitoba Blue Cross. 2026-1005
Powered by FlippingBook