According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), California leads the country in the most pharmacy robberies. As the opioid epidemic continues, those who are desperate to use or sell drugs see pharmacies as a quick supply source.

The federal government requires pharmacies to follow certain regulations including keeping all controlled substances in securely locked cabinets. Pharmacy owners are not allowed to keep blank prescription forms out in the open where they can be easily stolen. Of course, much more can be done to safeguard a pharmacy from theft.

Install Security Cameras Inside & Out.  Post signs throughout the pharmacy announcing that surveillance cameras are in use.

Fortify Entry Points. Add entry code requirements to all doors. Change the code whenever an employee leaves.

Add An Alarm System. Include motion sensors, especially where drugs are stored. Use video camera verification that a robber is in the building. Relaying this information to police will generate a quicker response.

Keep Lights On After Hours. Most pharmacies are storefronts—meaning there are plenty of large glass windows facing the pharmacy parking lot. Keep lights on inside after hours so unauthorized activity can be easily viewed.  Add lighting to all areas around the building.

Know Your Customers. Robbers aren’t afraid to steal drugs when the pharmacy is open. Train employees to acknowledge all customers who enter the store—so would-be thieves know they are being watched.

Add Security Patrols. Probably the best deterrent for after-hour break-ins or daylight robberies is security patrols. A physical security presence will be enough to discourage most would-be criminals.