How to deal with Department Stores

In this latest on-location episode of Titan PI TV, your host Simon Henson takes us into the heart of Derby City Centre for a practical demonstration of “How to Deal with Department Stores in Foot Surveillance.” Department stores present unique challenges for surveillance teams, making them a complex environment to navigate during an operation. Simon covers how to effectively track a subject through these environments without blowing your cover or losing visual contact (Eyeball) on your subject.

Key Points Covered in This Episode:

• Understanding the Department Store Environment: Simon highlights the specific difficulties department stores pose, such as high foot traffic, multiple exits, mirrors, and concealed spaces. These factors make it easy for a subject to evade detection unless a team is well-prepared.
• Hazards to Be Aware Of: Department stores are rife with hazards for surveillance operatives. Before entering, Simon stresses the importance of fully understanding and planning for the following:
  • Escalators: These can present visibility and proximity challenges when trailing a subject, making it crucial to keep a safe yet effective distance.
  • Stairs: Maintaining visual contact while navigating staircases requires skill, particularly when the subject takes them unexpectedly.
  • Lifts (Elevators): These are particularly risky due to the enclosed space, making it difficult to blend in. Simon explains techniques to avoid being caught out.
  • Security Staff (Overt and Covert): Department stores are often monitored by a combination of visible security personnel and plain-clothes staff, increasing the risk of drawing unwanted attention.
  • Security CCTV Cameras: Cameras are strategically placed throughout stores. Simon demonstrates how to stay out of their line of sight or use them to your advantage in tracking the subject.
  • CCTV Control Room: Many large department stores have dedicated CCTV control rooms where operatives are monitored. Simon explains how to maintain your cover despite this level of surveillance.
• Maintaining Visual Contact: Simon demonstrates practical methods for keeping the subject in sight without being spotted. He walks us through techniques such as blending in by pretending to browse and using reflective surfaces or mirrors for indirect observation.
• Effective Team Communication: Clear and covert communication between team members is critical in an environment like a department store. Simon explains how to relay information about the subject’s movements and exits discreetly to other operatives, ensuring smooth transitions between floors or areas.
• Managing Multiple Exits: With multiple entrances and exits, Simon outlines strategies for positioning team members at key points to ensure all potential routes are covered.
• Handling Elevators and Escalators: Simon delves into the best practices for using elevators and escalators during a surveillance operation. He explains how to avoid proximity while maintaining effective cover, as well as how to coordinate with your team for a seamless operation.
• Reacquiring a Lost Subject: Despite best efforts, a subject may slip out of sight. Simon shares key techniques for quickly reacquiring the subject, whether it involves repositioning team members or focusing on the café which most department stores have on the top floor.

Why Watch This Episode?
For anyone involved in surveillance, this episode offers practical, hands-on advice on navigating one of the most complex environments for operatives—department stores. Simon walks you through real-life scenarios to help you avoid common pitfalls and execute successful surveillance operations.

Interested in a career in surveillance? Titan offers industry-leading surveillance training courses to help you develop the skills necessary to handle even the most challenging environments. Visit our surveillance training course pages for more information!