5 ways to make guests feel safe in your hotel
1. Adopt Standard Security Precautions
Before we focus on additional security precautions, first make sure of your hotel's security basics. Every room should have a safe or safe (or at least provide valuable storage at the front desk). A secure room key system, password-protected WIFI, and door viewers are basic expectations for
guests.
Nowadays, a working phone isn't always on the table. priority for all guests, but most rooms rely on a telephone system for communication between guests and the hospitality front desk.
Make sure all phones are working properly and guests can reach you if they need anything from additional services to a spare room key.
For guests for safety each room must be equipped with smoke detectors, which must be checked regularly. Ensure that guest evacuation instructions are easily accessible and legible in every language and under all circumstances. Your staff should be trained in CPR and basic first aid, and you might also want to have AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) on site.
Security cameras and alarm systems are a standard expectation, protect guests as they traverse the halls. Smaller establishments may not require a full-time security guard, but a receptionist should be present at all times. Instead, make connections with local law enforcement and emergency services so they can respond quickly and efficiently in the event of an emergency.
It's an unfortunate reality that travelers are often easy targets for criminal’s experience emergencies. They are far from home, in an unfamiliar location and often carrying cash. Eating, sleeping, and activity patterns are also irregular. Taking extra precautions for hotel security will keep your guests happy, comfortable and protected.
2. Turn to Experienced and Qualified Experts
Once the basics are in place, there are many ways to improve the security of your organization. A key to effective hotel security is recruiting the right people to help. An experienced team of trained security professionals will help you assess your current practices and identify areas for improvement.
A security assessment helps you identify "blind spots" in your hotel: common areas that are not in view of security cameras. The hotel pool, exercise facility, game room, laundry room, hallways, lobby and restaurant must be visible to staff at all times. When concerns arise, surveillance footage can be extremely helpful. Privacy may be an issue for guests, but security cameras in common areas, hallways, and entrances are more reassuring than alerting.
Security personnel can also assist you in assessing your Safety help evacuation and emergency protocol.
Do you know how to get all guests to a safe place in an emergency? Do your employees also know the plan? Evaluate the current security plan and security cameras installed in your hotel. Are there areas for improvement? Invest the time and money in an experienced hotel security team to increase the value of your property today.
3. Keep checking in in person and asking questions
When a new guest arrives, face-to-face check-in conversations are crucial. Part of the security and protection of the hotel. Personal interaction has the power to prevent a terrible or dangerous situation. Your concierge staff will have the ability to speak directly to anyone who will be staying at your hotel. This is a great opportunity for your staff to ask questions and learn a little more about guests before they hand over room keys.
Will you enlist the help of security experts to train front desk staff to recognize suspicious behavior? Adopt a “see something, say something” policy. Instruct the concierge and front desk staff to ask questions of guests before making a reservation. Do your answers make sense? Do they say anything that sets off any warning signals?Are you comfortable with this person?
Employees should also learn to recognize signs of credit card fraud and identity theft (a common concern of those who handle personal information). You can protect your guests and property with proper training and vigilance.
Today, many modern hotels are switching to electronic guest check-in to save the weather. Unfortunately, removing the human element eliminates a valuable opportunity to spot warning signs.
There are workarounds that can still keep the check-in process efficient, and being present at the counter is key to security. Let your employees know about common warning signs, suspicious reactions, and behaviors to look out for. In today's world, hotel security and safety precautions like these are extremely relevant.
4. Conduct regular background checks
Always remember that as the manager of your hotel, safety starts with your employees.Cooks, room service, maids and concierges are close to your guests every day. The front desk staff takes care of your guests' credit card and personal information and often guards your valuables. It is your responsibility to ensure that the people you hire mean well and have the best interests of both your hotel and your guests in mind.
Perform background checks and Credentials from your employees through a secure way to keep track of who is working for you and interacting with your guests. Really care about your employees and learn more about them.
Understanding the people who represent your business and interact with your customers is an essential part of running a safe and successful hotel.
Sites like Good Hire and Total Reporting help make a background verification process easy and affordable. Never forget that hotel security starts at your home with you. Lead by example so you can confidently guarantee your guests a safe environment surrounded by the most responsible, trustworthy and ethical employees. And if for any reason a co-worker turns out not to be who you thought they were, you can responsibly end the relationship before guests are affected.
5. Create a clear and effective contingency plan
Much of your organization's hotel security is measured by how you respond to an emergency. Creating clear and effective contingency and evacuation plans before a disaster occurs will keep your guests safe. Preparing your staff and employees with a procedural plan will keep everyone safe and sane should the worst happen.
Pre-planned contingency steps protect your guests, but it will also protect your employees.
In case of catastrophic hotel emergencies like fire, natural disaster, robbery and devastating shooting in new hotel, having a contingency plan is a must. It's critical that your staff know what to do and how to respond in order to steer your guests in the right direction.
When an emergency arises, reach out the guests to show them what to do and where to go. It is a great responsibility and it is up to you and your employees to prepare for such a situation so that there are no
surprises. Security professionals can also inform you about your duty and responsibility should the worst-case scenario occur.
6. Plan for any possible safety concerns
Physical safety isn't the only concern travelers have. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to concern many travelers and hotel guests. To keep your visitors happy and healthy, be sure to follow strict cleaning protocols in guest rooms and common areas.
Data security is another major concern for travelers. Privacy should be part of your security protocols. Keeping your privacy policy up to date is just as important as keeping guest hallways safe. Take the time to review your hotel's safety and security procedures regularly review and update. When guests book a stay at your accommodation, whether it's a bed and breakfast, inn, or hostel, they expect you to protect their families and personal belongings from harm.
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