The crisis of unaffordable housing and homelessness has escalated to an alarming level, impacting businesses and neighborhoods alike. Individuals without resources often rely on the hospitality of nearby businesses to access essential facilities, such as bathrooms for personal hygiene, outlets to charge electronic devices, microwaves for food, and more.
This situation poses a range of challenges for local businesses, extending from loitering and vagrancy to more serious issues. Though the situation is sympathetic, it is unreasonable to expect business employees to handle these challenges without appropriate training and additional support.
If your business is currently grappling with challenges related to homelessness and trespassing on private property in Charlotte, this blog will provide you with three immediate actions you can take to address these issues effectively.
Establish Clear Boundaries
To ensure a secure environment, it is crucial to define and effectively communicate the boundaries of your property to the public. This can be achieved through various means such as signage, barriers, or physical fencing. By clearly demarcating the starting and ending points of your property, you can minimize the chances of unwelcome visitors or trespassers.
Train Your Staff
It is essential to provide comprehensive training to all staff members regarding the appropriate and safe approach to interacting with homeless individuals and trespassers. This training should emphasize the importance of treating these individuals with respect.
Establishing clear policies and procedures will guide staff members on how to handle such situations effectively. Encourage staff members to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activity or behavior to the security team without hesitation.
Hire a 24-hour Security Guard
The services of 24-hour security guards in Charlotte serve as a highly effective deterrent against trespassing and contribute to the overall safety of both staff and customers. These guards swiftly respond to incidents or any suspicious activities that arise, and if required, collaborate with local law enforcement.
Additionally, security guards assist in monitoring various security systems such as surveillance cameras, motion-activated alarms, door sensors, or even drone surveillance, further enhancing the overall security measures in place.
What other steps can you take to handle homeless people trespassing on private property?
Collaborate with local law enforcement authorities to establish a comprehensive plan for managing homelessness and trespassing. This collaboration involves sharing pertinent information about known individuals or areas of concern, as well as jointly formulating strategies to tackle these issues effectively.
Recognize that homeless individuals often seek shelter, sustenance, and other essential resources. Consider establishing partnerships with local organizations or charities to extend support to those in need. This can involve providing information about nearby shelters, food banks, or other beneficial services available in the area.
Above all, take proactive measures to safeguard your business against potential challenges. Engage the services of professional 24-hour security guards who can act as a deterrent to loitering and similar issues, while also possessing the expertise to handle any escalated situations that may arise.