Yellowknife (Mar 29/06) - A wave of break-ins targeting Yellowknife businesses over the last two weeks has firms taking extra steps to prevent further incidents.

Rob Johnson, general manager with Nexum Systems, shows off a video surveillance camera. He said thanks to the number of Yellowknife businesses broken into increasing, his company has been busy. A professionally-installed system deters thieves. - David Ryan/NNSL photo

One of those hit was the WAM Development Group North, which leases out a number of properties including the Panda 2 Centre. The third floor of the mall was recently hit with four break-ins.

“We’re trying to cover all of the angles,” said Elvis Brown, operation manager for WAM. “Security patrols going through our buildings have increased.”

The company has spent $40,000 on high-end security cameras in the last few years to make tenants feel more secure. It also had new deadbolt locks installed.

“Every break in costs at least $500 to $1,000,” he said.

Unfortunately it seems the more companies change their security methods, the more criminals change their techniques as well.

“There is always a bigger crowbar and a bigger sledgehammer,” he said.

Businesses can make their buildings more secure by making a few practical changes said Rob Johnson, general manager at Nexum Systems.

Well-lit entrances, sturdy deadbolts on the doors and quality window locks are small changes that may help reduce the threat, he said.

“Poor lighting is just an invitation to stand and whack away,” said Johnson.

Having an alarm system and access cards also helps, he said, adding some customers prefer to be wired to a video surveillance system.

A traditional hardwired alarm system is the most cost-effective security measure for businesses according to Max Cimon, manager for phone and security at Dannex Communication.

“There’s 70 per cent less chance for a break-in if potential thieves know a system is professionally installed and monitored,” said Cimon.

Such a system generally includes motion detectors, glass-break sensors and is always monitored, said Cimon.