SAFETY RESOURCES FOR BUSINESS

Through visible patrols, Happy Valley Police aims to deter crime and empower business owners to identify and address potential safety concerns. Deputies actively engage business areas and complexes, meticulously assessing parking lots, storefronts, and surrounding areas to ensure a secure environment. By providing a consistent and reassuring presence, law enforcement not only acts as a deterrent to criminal activity, but also establishes a direct line of communication with business owners.

The Happy Valley Police Department actively supports local businesses in enhancing their safety measures through comprehensive security surveys. Deputies will visit a business onsite and meticulously review such elements as exterior lighting, vegetation overgrowth, visibility of valuables, and potential weakened points of entry. By identifying potential areas of vulnerability, law enforcement can offer valuable insights and sound advice to address security concerns and make it harder for thieves to take advantage. Through these surveys, deputies not only help minimize risks and offer practical recommendations, but they also establish a constructive dialogue with the businesses they work with. If you are a business owner and would like to schedule a time for a member of the Public Safety Team to conduct a security survey, contact the City’s Director of Public Safety at [email protected].

People experiencing houselessness, mental illness, or substance abuse are becoming more prevalent in the Portland Metro area. In response, the City of Happy Valley and Happy Valley Police continue to work on solutions to address these types of concerns in our community. This includes connecting people with resources that might be beneficial and providing general education to our greater community.  The City of Happy Valley understands an increase in houselessness impacts everyone, including businesses that want to provide a safe environment for employees and customers. Learn more about how businesses and Happy Valley Police can partner in these efforts to create a positive environment for all. Additional information pertaining to public outdoor camping rules and regulations in Happy Valley can be found here.

The Happy Valley Business Alliance (HVBA) is a community-centric organization that supports and connects Happy Valley business owners and brings attention to their businesses, attractions, and upcoming special events. General meetings occur on the fourth Wednesday of every month and are held at Happy Valley City Hall from 7:30 a.m.-9 a.m. The Happy Valley Police Chief or another Public Safety Team representative will attend and provide important information pertaining to local business. Topics addressed might include a report on recent crime trends, resources available to business owners to prevent break-ins, or opportunities for business owners to partner on an upcoming law enforcement event. Learn more about the HVBA.

Comprised of City residents and liaisons from City Council, the City’s Traffic and Public Safety Committee is tasked with advising City Council on a variety of safety priorities and related programs. To do this, the group works closely with City staff, Community Service Officers, Clackamas Fire District # 1, and the Happy Valley Police to help shape service delivery and better understand resident needs. Their efforts often help reduce traffic accidents, promote pedestrian safety, and foster a sense of security among residents and local businesses.

Attending a Traffic and Public Safety Committee meeting can be invaluable for businesses seeking to prioritize safety initiatives. The committee serves as a platform for businesses to engage with local authorities and collaborate on strategies that enhance public safety. By attending these meetings, businesses can contribute to and benefit from discussions on traffic management, crime prevention, and overall community safety. Businesses have the opportunity to voice their concerns, propose safety initiatives, and garner support from the committee to implement measures that directly benefit their patrons and employees. Committee meetings are open to the public. Learn more at the Committee’s designated webpage.

Businesses can benefit from exploring these websites to access a wealth of information and guidance on safety practices, emergency preparedness, and security measures tailored to their specific needs and industries.

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): The OSHA website (osha.gov) provides comprehensive resources on workplace safety, regulations, and training materials.
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): The NFPA website (nfpa.org) offers resources on fire safety codes and standards, including guidelines for businesses.
• Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA website (sba.gov) has a section dedicated to safety and security resources for small businesses, covering topics such as emergency preparedness and cybersecurity.
• National Safety Council (NSC): The NSC website (nsc.org) provides information on workplace safety, training, and resources for various industries.
• U.S. Chamber of Commerce – Safety and Security Resources: The U.S. Chamber of Commerce (uschamber.com) offers resources and guidelines on safety and security practices for businesses.
• Local Police Department or City Government Websites: Local police department or city government websites often have specific safety resources and tips tailored to the community.
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): The FEMA website (fema.gov) provides resources on emergency preparedness and business continuity planning.
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH): The NIOSH website (cdc.gov/niosh) offers research-based information on workplace safety and health.
• Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA): The CISA website (cisa.gov) provides resources on cybersecurity for businesses, helping them protect against cyber threats.
• American Red Cross – Ready Rating Program: The Ready Rating program (readyrating.org) offers tools and resources to help businesses enhance their emergency preparedness and resilience.