Black Friday Safety Tips

Black Friday refers to the Friday following Thanksgiving. This trend originally comes from the United States, where the day or whole weekend generally involves most retailers offering high sales promotions. The UK has also seen a drastic change on this trend, where Black Friday has built momentum since it initially began in 2010. Black Friday falls on 29th November this year, we realise how for many retailers and customers this can be an exceptionally daunting and challenging day. That’s why we’ve put together some security and safety tips you can utilise this Black Friday. Never leave your purse or bags unattended If you’re not careful and alert, thieves can grab your purse or other valuables and be gone in seconds. It’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, never leave anything unattended and keep an eye out when standing in crowded places.  Don’t fight over items It may look like it’s the last piece left – but you may be lucky and find it online. Avoid aggressiveness and situations where violence can occur. Queue Control Whether is Boxing Day sales or Black Friday, managing crowds is not an easy task. Retailers should form a queue control, which ensures only a set number of customers are inside the shop and this makes it easier to manage and reduces the chance of anything going out of hand. Security Officers are vital Retail staff continue to face high volumes of violence, abuse and robberies on a day-to-day basis. It is no surprise that this occurs at a higher level on days like Black Friday. Hiring security officers can help protect your retail site, employees, customers and products. If security guards are present, it can deter offenders from carrying out any illegal acts. If any thefts do take place, the guards can quickly act accordingly and prevent a company from any major losses. Furthermore, security officers can help in de-escalating situations and addressing any threats and violence before they occur. Controlling the crowd during peak times is also highly important – officers can control customers accordingly in order to prevent any activity that is not wanted. Investing in manned guarding also gives clients a peace of mind. As suspicious activity can continuously be monitored on site, emergencies are dealt with correctly and tense situations are prevented. This also gives retail staff more space to focus on their job. Retailers should also ensure… They hire extra staff on the day Make sure certain entrances and exits are either blocked or open, in order to effectively manage queue control Anticipate and plan ahead for any problems that can occur If you are a retailer looking to employ security officers for your site – do not hesitate to get in touch with G3 Security Services. G3 provide all clients with exceptional services to protect premises and personnel. Hiring security officers puts companies and individuals at an advantage. As officers can provide a physical presence, surveillance and on-going patrols. T:  02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/

Trick or Treating Season Is Upon Us…

Halloween falls on a Thursday this year, which means some people are celebrating the weekend before, the weekend after and all of October. Spooky parties and trick-or-treating also means being extra cautious! That’s why we’ve put together our top safety tips for this year’s spooky pumpkin season. Decoration Safety Whether you are putting up eerie lights, decorative pumpkins and spiderwebs ensure all electrical outlets are being used appropriately. Follow the manual instructions when putting up the decorations and do your best to avoid unexpected damage. Spooky candles are always a nice idea for décor! However, be mindful as children, pets and guests can easily knock these over, resulting is more damage than necessary. It’s always a safer option to use battery operated candles. Drive Safely Every year, a number of incidents are reported on pedestrian and car accidents during Halloween season. Drivers need to be cautious and alert Keep their eye on the road Ensure their vehicle headlights are on. Drive Slowly Pay more attention at corners, intersections and alleyway Homeowners: Be Wary Many children may be trick-or-treating. It’s always good to keep outdoor lights on, remove unnecessary items from your driveway or porch, as this can trip a child. Moreover, some children may have allergies, you may want to consider handing out stickers or small toys just to be on the safe side. Costume Safety Whether you are buying a costume for yourself or a child, make sure the costume, wigs and accessories are all fire-resistant. When purchasing make-up, ensure it is nontoxic and do a patch test first. If children are trick-or-treating in the evening, you may want to add a reflective tape to their outfit or hand them glow sticks. This helps make children visible and reduces the risk of danger. Chocolates and Sweets Inspecting sweets and chocolates before eating them is a must! Especially as such edibles can come from sources that are unknown and not trustworthy. Children should also avoid any food that isn’t wrapped, or anything that seems as if it has been tampered with. If your halloween event is soon approaching and you are worried about the management of such an  occasion mentally, physically or emotionally. Then we strongly stress the benefits of hiring a G3 Security guard. Our officers are exceptionally experienced and G3 provide our clients with outstanding customer service. To discuss your requirement further do not hesitate to get in contact with us and speak to a member of our operations team. T:  02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/  

Combatting Knife Crime

With knife crime rising continuously to record-breaking levels, it has become more eminent to protect yourself and not become a victim to such vicious crimes. Rising knife crimes can be due to major police budget cuts, gang violence and high levels of drug intake. There is also less ‘stop and search’ from police officers, which may have led to such high crimes. Why are more people carrying knives? Due to the rise of more drug networks and drug dealing Gang affiliation – individuals tend to carry weapons for protection and status Protection – with rising threat and crime levels, people are carrying weapons for self-protection Peer pressure – many young people are persuaded to carry knives due to its glamorisation, media attention, exploitation and coercion. What is the Law? If anyone over the age of 18 is found in possession of a knife, they will automatically stand before the court. However, young individuals under 18 will be referred to the Youth Offending Team. What to do in case of a knife attack? 1. Stay calm If someone with a weapon approaches you or threatens you, try your best to deescalate the situation. Remain calm, vigilant and relaxed. 2. Try and understand who you are dealing with There are different types of attackers, and different situations in which a knife may be in use. For instance, the attacker may be mentally unstable, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 3. Ask the attacker what they want If someone has attacked you for theft purposes, they will ask you for your valuables. Although this may be difficult to do, the best course of action is to give up your possessions immediately. Secondly, if the attacker is looking to fight, try de-escalating the situation and letting them know you have no interest in violence. If the assailant seems mentally unstable or intoxicated, then the situation is highly dangerous, as their behaviour will be unpredictable. The best solution is to stay calm and slowly move away from them. 4. Ask for help If you are in a public place, the best option is to ensure you make noise and escape from a knife attack very quickly. Victims need to ensure they use their voice to communicate they are being attacked and need help. This will help alert the public around you and may deter the attacker from viciously attacking anyone. 5. Inform the police Once you have escaped the situation or if the attacker is at a safe distance from you – the police need to be informed immediately. This will help protect the general public and allow the police to prevent the aggressor from harming anyone else. G3 Security Services provide all clients with exceptional services to protect premises and personnel. Hiring security officers puts companies and individuals at an advantage. As officers can provide a physical presence, surveillance and on-going patrols on site. Overall this aids to deter intruders or criminals from acting out of line. G3 Security Services strongly stress the benefits of choosing any of our security measures. Our officers are exceptionally experienced and G3 provide our clients with outstanding customer service. If you have any security requirements do not hesitate to get in contact with us and speak to a member of our operations team. T:  02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/

Why Security Officers Are Vital For Retail Stores

British Retail Consortium (BRC) reports over 10,000 shop thefts per day in The UK. Customer theft has increased by 33%, and damage has increased by 105% in 2019. Retail staff continue to face high volumes of violence, abuse and robberies on a day-to-day basis. Workers are also facing mental health issues when dealing with such crimes. The most concerning elements are that criminals use violence to assist with theft and crimes are usually committed by individuals who are intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. Types of crimes: 1. Shoplifting: this involves stealing goods from retail shops. It can be committed by individuals or groups of people. 2. Checkout Fraud: some customers go the extra mile and avoid paying for items properly. They may swap barcodes, change price stickers or not pay for all items at the till. This is why all items should be security tagged, and staff should remain vigilant at all times. 3. Money Fraud: many customers may use stolen credit cards, counterfeit cash or fraudulent cheques to pay for items. This is illegal – and retailers need to have certain checks in place to avoid this. For example, cash needs to be inspected appropriately to ensure it is not forged. 4. Refund Fraud: some customers may attempt to return stolen items and they may forge receipts in the hope of gaining money or credit. 5. Moped Gangs: rising number of moped crimes have led to many ‘moped gangs’ targeting high-end shops such as jewellery stores and electronic shops. How Security Officers Can Help Retailers? Security officers can help protect your retail site, employees, customers and products. Shoplifting is a major concern within retail. With a high volume of customers in store, it can be difficult to keep an eye on every individual. If security guards are present, it can deter offenders from carrying out any illegal acts. If any thefts do take place, the guards can quickly act accordingly and prevent a company from any major losses. Security officers can also help in de-escalating situations and addressing any threats and violence before they occur. Controlling the crowd during peak times is also highly important – officers can control customers accordingly in order to prevent any activity that it not wanted. In case of emergencies, staff may not be trained well enough to calmly deal with the situation at hand. Security officers, on the other hand are a great asset to retailers. They are trained to react calmly to situations, in good time and in the appropriate manner. Investing in manned guarding also gives clients a peace of mind. As suspicious activity can continuously be monitored on site, emergencies are dealt with correctly and tense situations are prevented. This also gives retail staff more space to focus on their job. If you are a retailer looking to employ security officers for your site – do not hesitate to get in touch with G3 Security Services. G3 provide all clients with exceptional services to protect premises and personnel. Hiring security officers puts companies and individuals at an advantage. As officers can provide a physical presence, surveillance and on-going patrols. T:  02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/

Moving Out For Uni? Read Our Top Tips On Accommodation Safety…

It’s September – which means the academic year has officially begun for many across the UK. For some, it also means moving out for university for the first time ever! This can be exciting, daunting and surprising all at once.That’s why we’ve put together some safety tips students should be aware of… 1.Protect Your Valuables University accommodations are always super busy, especially during term time. Your roommates may have friends stopping by – and you may not know every single individual well enough. Thus, it’s always eminent to protect your belongings – this can be done by ensuring your room and windows are locked at all times when you’re not present. Moreover, don’t keep expensive items on display in your room, you may want to invest in a small locker to keep certain belongings safe and sound. 2. Accommodation Buddy Always let one of your friends know about your whereabouts, especially if you are having a night out partying or even if you’re just doing your routine grocery run. If you’re travelling late at night make sure you keep in well-lit areas even if this makes your journey longer. 3. Don’t leave your key lying around It can be tempting to leave your key under the doormat or in the flowerpot. However, criminals and intruders are well aware of this method. Don’t put your accommodation at risk by doing this. It’s best to rely on a good friend that can be trusted with your key. 4. Be Aware of Fire & Safety Procedures Fires tend to start in the kitchen, so it’s crucial that appropriate measures are taken when cooking. Ensure you don’t misuse kitchen appliances, don’t leave candles unattended and don’t charge electrical items overnight. Fires alarms can turn off at any moment, it’s also best to know all fire exits near you, evacuation and assembly points. If an emergency occurs you should immediately evacuate the premises, inform a member of staff if possible and don’t waste time grabbing your belongings. G3 Security Services provide all clients with exceptional services to protect premises and personnel. Hiring security officers puts companies and individuals at an advantage. As officers can provide a physical presence, surveillance and on-going patrols on site. Overall this aids to deter intruders or criminals from acting out of line. G3 Security Services strongly stress the benefits of choosing any of our security measures for student accommodations. Our officers are exceptionally experienced and G3 provide our clients with outstanding customer service. To discuss your requirements further do not hesitate to get in contact with us and speak to a member of our operations team. T:  02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/

Notting Hill Carnival Safety

Notting Hill Carnival can be described as Europe’s biggest street festival.  Individuals are advised to plan well ahead – this means knowing what route you will take to the carnival as some buses and underground lines may not be running. G3 have also put together carnival fundamentals you should be aware of… 1. Carnival Essentials Essentials such as tissues, wet wipes, sanitizers, water bottles, sunglasses and sunscreens are always mandatory, so be sure to take them with you. 2. Comfort is key Bright coloured clothes and accessories are a must during the carnival! But ensure you wear comfortable shoes as you will be on your feet for long durations and the streets can get super crowded. 3. Keep your valuables close Try to avoid carrying valuable possessions with you. Be aware of pickpockets, especially in such crowded areas. Finally, don’t carry large amounts of cash with you – as it can be a headache to constantly keep it safe. If, however, you feel unsafe or have any worries contact police officer or security personnel – there are many around the carnival that can be easily reached. 4. Alcohol & Drugs safety If you are drinking, keep your cup where you can see it and don’t trust drinks from any strangers. Ensure you fully understand UK law, which prohibits individuals from being in possession of illegal drugs. All events have strict procedures and sniffer dogs in place in place to search people. If any illegal substance is found on someone they are usually arrested or may be evicted from the event. 5. Dealing with large crowds Usually, crowd control is managed exceptionally well, however it is still good to be mindful of some of the problems that can occur. Within large crowds, tensions may escalate, so avoid getting involved and immediately report incidents to the security team. Avoid pushing or nudging individuals if the crowd begins to rush from one side. Most of all, stay calm, collected and patient. If your event is soon approaching and you are worried about the management of such a large occasion mentally, physically or emotionally. Then we strongly stress the benefits of hiring a G3 Security guard. Our officers are exceptionally experienced and G3 provide our clients with outstanding customer service. To discuss your requirement further do not hesitate to get in contact with us and speak to a member of our operations team. T:  02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/

Keep Your House Secured During Holiday Season

Many people are off on their holidays over the summer, which means houses are left unoccupied and are easily accessible to criminals. There are a few ways in which you can protect your premises whilst you’re away… 1. Let there be light! Your house can’t seem completely unoccupied to criminals or trespassers, so the best way to go about this is to keep certain areas of the house well lit. This means keeping a light on in a room or purchasing a front door light that activates itself when someone enters into a certain radius. This can help deter intruders from entering or carrying out suspicious activity. You can also invest in a light with a timer switch. This will allow you to set certain times when you want the light to be on. Most people choose to keep this on in the evening. 2. Give access to someone you trust Nothing is worse than letters and leaflets piling up in your post box. This only motivates criminals further and tells them you’re not at home. The best way to go about this is to hand a trusted person your spare key. They can visit your home, ensure everything is in check and move all post where it’s not visible. Before jetting off, also ensure you cancel all routine deliveries. So, groceries and online shopping need to be done well before you set off. 3. Social media doesn’t have to know… We all know a holiday isn’t really a holiday until you broadcast it on Facebook and Instagram! However, it’s best to avoid posting anything about your holiday whilst your away, especially if you have a public account. This publicises how your house is empty and places your property at risk. 4. Ensure your property does not look unoccupied This can be done through many ways. For instance, mowing the lawn before you leave, not leaving clothes on the washing line, keeping lights on and cancelling regular grocery deliveries. 5. Don’t leave valuables home Expensive jewellery, laptops and other prized possessions are not safe at home. Even if these valuables are well hidden and locked away, they are subject to theft. You may want to purchase a safe locker and keep these items protected appropriately. If you are away on holiday or if you’re worried that your premises is unsafe, contact G3 Security Services to find out more on how security officers can help protect your site from intruders. G3 Security Services strongly stress the benefits of choosing manned guarding. Our officers are exceptionally experienced and G3 provide our clients with outstanding customer service. To discuss your requirements further do not hesitate to get in contact with us and speak to a member of our operations team. T: 02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/

Mistakes Your Company Is Making by Not Investing in Security Officers

If you and your business are relying solely on alarm and security systems, then you are endangering your business, site and employees. Although these high-tech alarms, CCTV or other new technological security advancements provide you with intruder alerts, monitoring and sirens, security officers are still an option you won’t regret investing in. 1. Most businesses believe their workplace is safe and free from intruders, criminals or suspicious activity. However, this puts your firm at a disadvantage, if an unexpected event does occur, most staff will not be prepared to handle the situation or deal with intruders effectively. G3 Security provide well trained and experienced security officers to suit your needs. We also dedicate a client manager who is wholly responsible for ensuring the highest level of service delivery is provided to your site. 2. Many firms allocate one of their own employees to act as a security personnel when the need arises. This is a big hazard, as employees are not sufficiently trained, nor equipped with full knowledge on how to deal with a threat. Security guards can help a business against intruders, loss prevention, or even against assault or violence. 3. Easy access for unauthorised individuals in buildings could become the norm. Security officers help ID people into a site, this deters unofficial people from entering a building and reduces the risk of any crimes occurring. Security officers will also be able to check entrants’ belongings for any suspicious articles. This therefore helps businesses relax and not worry about any security crisis taking place. G3 Security Services provide all clients with exceptional services to protect premises and personnel. Hiring security officers puts companies and individuals at an advantage. As officers can provide a physical presence, surveillance and on-going patrols on site. Overall this aids to deter intruders or criminals from acting out of line. G3 Security Services strongly stress the benefits of choosing manned guarding. Our officers are exceptionally experienced and G3 provide our clients with outstanding customer service. To discuss your requirements further do not hesitate to get in contact with us and speak to a member of our operations team. T: 02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/

Summer Holidays: Keeping kids safe and sound

It’s finally that time of year, where parents and children can relax, rest and most of all have fun. Whilst some families have booked holidays, others are making use of parks, picnics, beach trips and summer camps. Although, the UK is relatively safe for children, it is always best to never leave a child unattended or let them roam around by themselves. Here’s why we’ve conjured up some tips and tricks for parents and guardians. 1. Never leave a young child unattended Busy places such as parks, beaches and theme parks may be fun, but do keep your child close as they can easily wander off. It may be good to make your child wear a wrist band which has your number and name printed on top, this is helpful in case your child gets lost.  If you’re more tech-savvy, then give your child a tracking device. Don’t carry personalised items that identify a child’s name, address or age. This would lead strangers to know personal information on the child and can severely place a kid at risk. 2. Stranger Danger Teach your child about stranger danger, this entails teaching them to never accept sweets, liquids or any kind of food from strangers. Ensure they don’t trust strangers or any individuals they are not familiar with. When hiring carers, guardians or a nanny for children –always ensure he/she is fully qualified, DBS checked, and you may want to get their references. 3. Swim (but safely) It is absolutely mandatory that your child is supervised whilst out swimming. Despite a large crowd or lifeguards in the area, you are responsible for your own child’s safety. There should always be a swimming buddy with the child and kids should refrain from staying in the pool when they are tired or cold. 4. Be careful when carrying out BBQs Barbeques are all fun and games until someone gets hurt or touches the hot stand. Be careful if there’s a lot of children playing and running around the grill. Keep any decorations away from the grill, never leave a grill unattended and don’t overload food onto the BBQ grill. 5. Sun Protection is absolutely mandatory With rising temperatures and heatwaves across Europe it is best to always ensure your child wears sunscreen, shades, lightweight clothing and sun hats. Read more about staying safe in the heat on our previous blog – ‘Keep Calm and Enjoy the Heatwave’. As summer has officially begun, more events, festivals and entertainment are taking place all over London. If you have planned an upcoming event and you are worried about the security management and threats of such a large occasion, then do get in touch with G3 Security Services. Our officers are exceptionally experienced and G3 provide our clients with outstanding customer service. To discuss your requirement further do not hesitate to get in contact with us and speak to a member of our operations team. T:  02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/  

Keep Calm And Enjoy The Heatwave

Record-breaking heatwave has officially hit most European countries. As temperatures soar to extreme levels, many are flocking to beaches and parks. However, it is still eminent that appropriate precautions are taken to protect yourself in this weather. High exposure to heat can cause exhaustion, dehydration and fatigue. 1. It is imperative that you stay hydrated. Make sure you keep a bottle of water with you, especially if you are outdoors for a long period of time. 2. Keeping cool is a must. Ideally, remaining indoors, around air conditioning or fans is the best option. However, we all cannot go into hibernation, so the best alternative is to make sure you take breaks in any shops or shelters when you are outdoors. For instance, retail stores, coffee shops or libraries may have a cooler environment. So, it’s best to pop in for a bit and take advantage. Other than this, wear sunglasses, have cool baths and showers and eat light foods such as salads and fruits. 3. Be alert – if at any moment you feel unwell with exhaustion or dizziness then you may be experiencing heat exhaustion. If this isn’t taken seriously you may be a victim of heatstroke. Hence it is imperative that you vacate to a cooler place, lie down and take sufficient fluids. 4. Dress appropriately – lightweight, loose, and light-coloured clothing is the best option to help keep your body at a cool temperature. 5. Don’t spend too much time in the sun. It is best to avoid getting sunburnt or putting yourself in risk. Make sure you cool yourself down with wet cloths or sponges. 6. Finally, keep watching or listening to weather predictions to keep on top of weather forecasts and warnings. As summer has officially begun, more events, festivals and entertainment are taking place all over London. If your event is soon approaching and you are worried about the security management and threats of such a large occasion, then do get in touch with G3 Security Services. Our officers are exceptionally experienced and G3 provide our clients with outstanding customer service. To discuss your requirement further do not hesitate to get in contact with us and speak to a member of our operations team. T:  02032880000 / 02032880011 F: 02089119546 E: info@g3security.co.uk W: www.g3security.co.uk Leave us a feedback: https://www.g3security.co.uk/security-companies/about-us-security-company-london/leave-us-feedback/