LPD Business Watch - Info/Registration

Business Watch Program

The Lansing Police Department has created the Lansing Business Watch Program. The Business Watch takes the "neighbors looking out for neighbors" concept to the commercial level, creating a partnership between business, law enforcement, and other organizations that represent business interests.  Business Watches actively reduces and prevents crime through cooperation and education.  The Program encourages business owners to ensure the safety of not only their business but also for the citizens.  By joining the Lansing Business Watch, you will receive this decal (see above) to be displayed in your business window or door. 

If you are a business and would like to become part of the Lansing Business Watch or have any questions about, contact Lt. Scott Bailey at (708) 985-7130; you can also contact The Lansing Chamber of Commerce at (708) 474-4170.

What is Business Watch

Modeled after Neighborhood Watch, Business Watch takes the “neighbors looking out for neighbors” concept to the commercial level, creating a partnership between business, law enforcement, and other organizations that represent business interests. The Business Watch philosophy is straightforward— Take control of what happens in your business community and lesson your chances of becoming a victim. Business Watches actively reduces and prevents crime through cooperation and education. Programs vary according to need; however, successful groups adhere to these fundamental steps:

•  Promote communication and understanding between law enforcement and business.
• Encourage and enhance cooperation among merchants.
• Teach merchants to crime-proof their properties, watch over neighboring businesses and report suspicious activity.
•  Develop a telephone tree and/or email distribution list to quickly disseminate information about area crime

Program Benefits

When you start a Business Watch program on your street or block, or within your shopping center or mall, you take an important step toward a safer environment for yourself, your employees, your customers —and your community as a whole. In addition to reducing crime, Business Watch offers many other benefits, including opportunities to:

• Network with other area businesses
• Foster a good working rapport with area law enforcement.
• Offer employee training and education.
• Garner publicity and community goodwill for your establishment.

Business Security Tips

• Business staff should be alert for suspicious persons, things and circumstances. Call police if you suspect criminal activity.
• Access control should be maintained at all times. If key control is compromised, locks should be changed.
• Invest in modern surveillance cameras, which will help deter shoplifting and employee theft. Newer systems allow business managers to monitor their business from home or their smart phone.
• Install a quality alarm system which is tailored to the needs of your business
• Take steps to protect your business from cyber security risks.
• Make sure your business has adequate interior and exterior lighting . This not only keeps your business safe, but also helps keep your employees safe.
• Keep windows free of obstructions that will obscure the view of passersby and police to potential trouble occurring inside.
• Mentally prepare yourself for the possibility of violence occurring in your work environment. What is your responsibility?
• Create a code of proper conduct for your employees.

Chamber membership also automatically enrolls you into the Business Watch Program. 

Not A Member and want to enroll?  Send an email with your Business Name, name and email to:  Director@chamberoflansing.com

For additional info, contact Lt. Scott Bailey at 895-7130 or sbailey@villageoflansing.org.