North Yorkshire Police and Harrogate BID has warned businesses to clear their shop fronts as the coronavirus lockdown is officially extended by another three weeks.

There has not been a rise in the number of break-ins like other places around the country but business owners are being asked to take precautionary measures.

Some businesses have already cleared their shop fronts and even boarded up their windows to prevent crime.

Alex Sellars, an adviser to the Harrogate BID board, said:

Harrogate BID has released the following guidance to prevent businesses from becoming the target of criminals:

• If you don’t have security shutters, remove all stock from shop windows


• Fit security cameras (which can be purchased reasonably cheap on-line) and place within key areas- Please refer to https://ico.org.uk/. to make sure that any camera installation is registered legally and correctly.


• If cameras are internet-enabled, make sure you have a reliable and secure connection


• Put up notices to say premises are being monitored by a security company


• Ensure the property is security marked


• If you have external lights, leave them on or replace with motion-sensitive ones


• Make sure mortice locks are at least five-lever and comply with your insurance company specifications


• Ensure all windows are properly secured


• Report any suspicious activity to the police


• Ensure your alarm has been serviced and is operating correctly.


• Email the police at general.enquiries@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk with your up to date key holder details to ensure that the police and other emergency services can provide an effective response to alarms sounding at your premises.