BUSINESSES in Dorset are being urged to assess security measures because there is an increase in theft in the summer months.

The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) is running a campaign to advise businesses to ensure that they have basic security measures in place.

Alex Carmichael, BSIA technical director explained: "Security is essential all year round, but even more so in the summer with an increased risk of opportunist theft when some businesses are shut down for a summer break or when windows and doors are left open."

He commented: "Physical security measures such as locks, doors, safes and fencing are a good place to start.

"Electronic solutions such as a basic, monitored intruder alarm can make a further impact in deterring a criminal from entering a premises and will alert a monitoring centre if an alarm is triggered."

Mr Carmichael said that simple access control and CCTV systems should not be overlooked as a means to prevent loss, deter crime and detect incidents when they occur.

"Using a security guarding patrol to check premises on a regular basis could also be an option for some businesses, and the service could potentially be shared with neighbouring organisations," he added.

Other effective measures include property marking while careful disposal of confidential material will protect a business and its customers from the risk of identity theft and fulfil obligations under the Data Protection Act.