How to Handle an Armed Robbery
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Armed Robberies are occurring with alarming frequency in urban centres across the country.  Fortunately, most of these do not result in injury to the victims, but this is more often due to good luck than good planning.  It is imperative that anyone in a cash / retail business realize they are at risk to armed robbery and having recognized this, prepare a plan for themselves and their employees so they are prepared for any eventuality.

The first rule about surviving an armed robbery is to do what the robber says.  Co-operate fully with the suspect so they do not get agitated or enraged.  In most cases they are just as scared as you and it is imperative that an already tense situation does not escalate.

The best way to defend yourself against an armed robbery is to observe every possible thing and provide the police with as much information as possible.  If the police have sufficient information on a suspect, they can do their jobs more effectively and ensure the people who perpetrate these crimes are caught and stopped. 

Noticing and remembering the characteristics of the perpetrator is important in order to assist the police in apprehending these criminals.  Note the racial origin, the sex, age, height, weight, hair colour and eye colour.  Observe the disguise used as well as the best description of a weapon if one is seen.  The words used in the commission of the offence are also important.  If possible, obtain a direction of travel once the suspect leaves your business.  Get a vehicle description and licence plate if you can.  Above all, remain calm and co-operate.

It is important to be aware of the people who come into your business.  It is rare the person who sticks a gun in your face will do it without having spent at least a small period of time in your business to determine the potential risks involved to them in the performance of the crime.  Beware of the individual who spends a lot of time "just looking."  Usually they will not be concentrating on the item they are inspecting, but rather they will be looking around your business trying to determine where cash is kept, how many employees are there, if any surveillance cameras are being used or if there are any alarms they need to be concerned about. 

It's alright to be suspicious of people who don't look right.  Chances are they probably aren't.