Creating a Safer Business Community: Lessons from the Regional Advocacy Round Table on Public Safety

​Creating a Safer Business Community: Lessons from the Regional Advocacy Round Table on Public Safety

​At our recent Regional Advocacy Round Table, local law enforcement leaders from the Pasco, Richland, and Kennewick Police Departments shared valuable insights with business owners on how to protect their property, employees, and customers. Public safety continues to be a top concern for our business community, and officers emphasized several practical steps businesses can take to deter crime and support policing efforts.

Lighting is one of the most important and easy-to-implement safety measures. Proper lighting around your business, especially around entrances, exits, and parking areas, can discourage criminal activity and make it easier to spot suspicious behavior. Criminals tend to avoid well-lit areas because they are more likely to be seen.

Surveillance cameras are another effective tool. Not only do cameras deter theft and vandalism, but police can also use video footage to identify suspects and gather evidence. Even basic security camera systems can make a big difference and are becoming more affordable for small businesses.

Another key takeaway always calls 911 when something happens, regardless of how small the issue is. Whether it is vandalism, suspicious behavior, or minor theft, reporting incidents helps law enforcement see where problems occur. Police departments use this information to track patterns and focus resources using a method called “Hotspot Policing,” which targets areas with higher levels of reported crime.

Business owners also learned about their rights when it comes to trespassing. No one has the right to hang out on or use private property without permission. You can ask someone to leave, and if they do not, police can legally remove them. Better yet, most local departments offer a “Pre-Authorized Trespass” form. By signing this, you give police permission to remove trespassers from your property after hours, without needing to call you first.

Finally, several police departments offer free business safety audits. Officers can visit your location, assess your current safety measures, and suggest ways to improve your physical security. These audits help tailor safety strategies to a business’s specific needs and location.

Maintaining the safety of our business community requires teamwork. By taking small but smart steps—and working closely with local law enforcement—we can all help make our cities safer places to live, work, and shop.