“The equipment doesn’t represent a large financial outlay anymore,” David said. He is currently upgrading his existing security cameras to the latest high definition equipment.

“The new HD cameras pick up absolutely everything,” he said. “I know exactly what’s going on inside and in the surrounding area,” he said.

As well as protecting his business premises, David believes business owners should take the next step in the security process by proactively assisting police to identify criminals.

“The key to getting results is to accurately record the activity in and around your business 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” he said.

Last year security firm ADT Security undertook a survey of 500 Australian small business owners to better understand the financial and emotional implications of crime. The results show crime can be devastating for small businesses. The potential for the loss of profit and merchandise to overwhelm a business is high, not to mention the threat crimes like robbery pose to the physical safety of customers and employees.

CCTV footage is currently being used by police to investigate a robbery at a Laurieton jewellery store. A suspect has been identified and other forensic testing has been undertaken. In the meantime, store owner Carolyn Martin has confirmed she is in the process of installing additional security measures at the store.

David McGowan has a positive view of the local area.

“If you consider the bigger picture, Laurieton is a good town, however it is up to all of us to keep it a good town by keeping the crime rate low,” he said.

“We can do that by helping police identify and prosecute the offenders,” he added. “Those kids who broke into the pool, for instance, will turn into bigger thieves if they aren’t stopped.”