The holiday season brings a surge of activity to retail spaces, malls, and public areas. With record numbers of shoppers and heightened activity, it’s unfortunately also a time when risks from vehicular threats increase. From “crash and grabs” where thieves use vehicles to break through storefronts to accidental crashes caused by rushed or distracted drivers, the holiday season presents unique risks for retailers and pedestrians alike.
A solution that can mitigate these risks is crash-rated bollards, specifically those offered by Barrier1 Systems. With a range of options to suit different security needs and installation constraints, Barrier1’s bollards are designed to protect storefronts, pedestrians, and high-traffic areas during the busiest shopping season of the year.
The Rise in Holiday Vehicular Threats
Holiday shopping events, especially around Black Friday and the pre-Christmas rush, create conditions where both accidental and intentional vehicular incidents spike. Here are the two main types of threats retailers face:
- Intentional Crash and Grabs: During a crash and grab, criminals use a vehicle to ram into a storefront to gain quick entry, often aiming to steal high-value goods in a matter of minutes. Luxury retailers, electronics stores, and even convenience stores are common targets, as thieves take advantage of busy holiday crowds and ample inventory.
- Accidental Crashes: With crowded parking lots and busy storefronts, distracted driving and rushed maneuvers are common. Many incidents involve drivers who are rushing or distracted by holiday chaos, GPS navigation, or even other sales notifications on their phones. In addition, drunk driving incidents also rise during the holiday season, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reporting that DUI-related accidents increase by as much as 41% during this period.
Given the range of threats, bollards offer businesses a reliable, seasonally essential layer of protection for both their storefronts and customers.
How Barrier1’s Bollards Mitigate Vehicular Threats
Barrier1 Systems offers a comprehensive range of crash-rated bollards designed to protect against both intentional and accidental vehicular threats, especially during the holiday season. Our options include:
- Shallow Mount Bollards
- Super Shallow Mount Bollards
- Set and Pour Bollards
- Retractable Bollards
- Safety Bollards
Barrier1’s bollards provide protection tailored to various threat levels, with options that are crash-rated to stop anything from a 5,000 lb. vehicle traveling at 10 mph (ideal for accidental impacts) to a 15,000 lb. vehicle traveling up to 50 mph (designed to prevent intentional attacks like crash and grabs). This range allows businesses to select the most effective solution for their unique location and security needs.
Why Bollards Are Essential for Holiday Season Security
Bollards serve as both a visible and physical barrier that safeguards storefronts, protects pedestrians, and prevents vehicles from breaching busy retail spaces. Here’s why bollards are a vital security measure for the holiday season:
- Deterrent Against Crime: Bollards provide a strong visual deterrent, signaling to potential criminals that their vehicle won’t be able to penetrate the storefront. This discourages crash and grabs and helps prevent property damage and inventory theft.
- Protection for Pedestrians: During high-traffic shopping times, pedestrian safety becomes a top priority. Bollards can protect customers, employees, and passersby from out-of-control vehicles, especially in crowded walkways and parking lots.
- Mitigation of Structural Damage: Bollards can prevent vehicles from reaching storefronts, which significantly reduces damage repair costs. This is especially valuable during the holiday season, allowing businesses to avoid disruptive and costly repairs.
Additional Tips for a Secure Holiday Season
While bollards provide a solid line of defense, layering other security measures ensures comprehensive protection:
- Install Surveillance Cameras: Cameras in parking areas and near store entrances act as a deterrent and provide evidence in the event of an incident.
- Reinforce Windows and Entrances: Reinforced glass or metal grilles provide added protection against unauthorized entry.
- Employee Training: Educating employees on spotting suspicious behavior can prevent incidents before they escalate.
Conclusion
During the holiday season, retailers face increased risks from both criminal and accidental vehicular threats. With a range of crash-rated bollards tailored to specific needs, Barrier1 Systems offers an effective solution for protecting storefronts, customers, and inventory from potential harm.
To discuss which bollard option is best for your location, connect with Barrier1 Systems today at www.barrier1.com/contact-us, [email protected], or (336) 617-8478. With Barrier1’s bollards in place, business owners can enjoy a safe and successful holiday season, knowing their properties and customers are secure.