Many of us remember our high school psychology or sociology class discussions on ‘Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs’ theorising that human motivation progresses from our fundamental needs up through five steps to Self-actualisation. The theory suggests that the most fundamental need, that of air, food and water must be met before having the motivation and desire to move to the second level, that of Safety and Security.
Safety and Security are similar in many ways and is one of the primary reasons for people gathering together in communities. So much so that cities including Paris, London and Rome were originally constructed on rivers in positions not only providing water and the ability to grow food, but often on deep bends of the rivers where the construction of walls for security was reduced by partially utilising the river as a boundary. Such was, and is, the human desire to remain safe.
In describing our long held desire for Security I continue to use the following definition from ‘Security 101’ text by Fischer & Green (1992):
‘Security implies a stable, relatively predictable environment in which an individual or group may pursue its ends without disruption or harm and without fear of disturbance or injury’
This definition well describes the desire to go about our lives without disruption and interference, but unfortunately this wish appears to be increasingly difficult to achieve and maintain. Resources and funds are poured into the wider security environment by governments, corporations, non-profit groups and individuals in an effort to move towards this desirable state.
To reach this state, the security strategies of Deter, Detect, Delay and Respond are fundamental in our approach, from combatting international terrorist groups through to simple security measures at home to protect family and property.
Deterrence should be the initial goal – to stop someone taking part in your life without invitation to do so. In essence your property should appear difficult to interfere with, whether it is your car, home or business. Territorial reinforcement, good lighting, CCTV, alarms, Police & Security presence, good structure and design are important to harden the potential target and make the offender go elsewhere. Easy targets out of view are a prime focus for a thief.
I am reminded of the analogy from a former boss of mine who originated from Zimbabwe (Rhodesia at the time) of not having to run quicker than the lioness chasing you, just quicker than the friend who is running with you. The same is true when protecting your assets – your target needs to be the toughest one.
Whilst there is no need to transform your business or home into a fortress, there are effective ways of managing risks without breaking the bank. Police, Neighbourhood watch, Insurance companies and some internet sites provide advice and there are specific businesses that provide risk assessing and advice for homes through to large industrial facilities as part of a product sale such as locks or an alarm system, or independently.
If you have concerns about the security of your assets I highly recommend you seek advice to avoid being the slower runner in Zimbabwe.
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Richard Myers
General Manager – Risk
Southern Cross Protection
