The COVID-19 pandemic left a permanent mark on the global economy, and Canada was no exception. Business closures combined with unprecedented levels of unemployment gripped the country during lockdowns; the challenges to the economy were severe. Today, inflation adds to rising Canadian costs of living and strains household budgets. These economic challenges further increased the rates of crime throughout the country. Consequently, the nation requires higher security measures to protect communities.
Impact of Economic Hardships on Crime Rates
The relationship between economic distress and crime usually fuels the latter’s growth. Such periods of economic despair are wont to prompt a certain percentage of people to choose crime either as a means to survive or merely to act out of desperation. In Canada, this is somewhat more observable; during such trying times, particular types of crimes tend to appear more frequently than others.
In the next section, we will discuss various types of crimes that exist today in Canada and how security guards can prevent the occurrence of those crimes.
- Theft and Burglary
Financial pressure has increased cases of theft and burglary, as people are willing to do anything to gain money fast. In addition, residential areas and small companies often fall victim due to perceived lower security measures. Security guards patrol regularly and ensure places are safe and secure. They respond to alarms quickly, thus preventing any potential burglar from achieving their target. They assure public safety and develop a sense of community.
- Shoplifting
High inflation has increased the prices of the bare necessities, and shoplifting remains on the rise. All shops in Canada are witnessing increased cases of stolen goods, most of which are food and clothing. Security officers stationed at entrances and inside shops monitor customers’ actions, apprehend shoplifters, and report to store authorities to take measures to discourage the act. The presence of security officers alone serves as an effective deterrent to shoplifting.
- Car Theft
Economic recessions are also likely to be accompanied by rampant car thefts. These stolen cars can be broken down into parts or used for other criminal activities. The chances of such events can be reduced by installing safety measures like mobile patrols, CCTV surveillance, and entry points at parking lots. Security guards who investigate suspicious activities can frequently inspect such places and work hand in glove with the local police to track and recover the stolen vehicles.
- Vandalism
Acts of vandalism like graffiti and breaking of property, among others, are prevalent whenever the economy is put under strain since the people are in a position to unleash frustrations. Security guards prevent vandalism by checking vulnerability-prone areas, continually monitoring activities using surveillance equipment, and engaging the community with respect for public and private properties. Further, a quick reaction to an incident helps reduce damages and ensure that culprits are made to face consequences.
- Fraud and Scams
If dire financial circumstances prevail, fraud activities, such as identity theft and phishing scams, may increase. Information security professionals experienced in cybersecurity can deter fraud perpetrated against people or organizations. The expert monitors for suspicious online activity, trains employees and the public to be cautious, and collaborates with IT departments to improve digital security measures.
- Drugs-Related Crimes
Economic instability often accompanies and heightens the abuse of drugs; it leads more to crimes committed during the trafficking and possession of drugs. Security guards help by scanning high-risk areas and working with local authority bodies to identify and break drug networks. They create a secure environment in public spaces, which ultimately scares off drug-related activities and promotes community safety.
- Domestic Violence
Security guards offer an alternative solution to domestic violence. They can take action when they notice signs of violence from the other party to provide a way out before it gets worse. Financial stress has strained family bonds, thus increasing the rates of household violence. Security guards in residential complexes can help by being vigilant over signs of home disturbances, and offering safe points of contact with victims. They collaborate with regional law enforcers and social services to ensure timely intervention and support to persons affected.
- Cybercrime
Cybercrime including phishing and hacking has increased, with most people embracing online sources for shopping, banking, and communications. Security is advised to ensure periodic cyber-checks, strict advanced security measures, and training on cyber threats’ identification and response mechanisms. These efforts will minimize exposure to cybercrime and protect highly valuable information.
9. Robbery
Economic crunches often unleash desperation for quick money, which may heighten robbery cases against people and businesses. Security guards help prevent robbery by imposing strict control access, installing and monitoring alarms, and conducting security reviews regularly to detect and eliminate vulnerabilities. They prevent robberies and ensure quick responses to incidents.
10. Organized Crime
Economic crises are a springboard for organized crime because these groups can recruit members and expand their activities during financial desperation. To defeat this, security guards can gather intelligence, assess risks, and collaborate with the police to disrupt their organized networks. Strategic presence with proactive measures will undoubtedly break down these organizations while increasing community safety.
Conclusion
There is a growing rate of crimes, and the economic downturn requires greater security. Security guards’ role in reducing and preventing these cases is essential to making communities around Canada feel safe and stable. Specific security challenges are addressed to create tailor-made interventions by security guards to make everyone safer.
With the help of the best security guard services across Canada, you can professionally secure your community and business by staying one step ahead of threats and rest assured of their safety.
.
.
Read Also: The Essence of Creative Imaging in Brand Identity profession
