The Midland Journal

MAKING IT HARDER FOR BANK ROBBERS
Mechanical Devices That Impede the Work of Bandits Described by Bankers Association Official.

The impediments which the hard working bank robber now meets in plying his trade among small as well as large banks are described by James E. Baum, Deputy Manager American Bankers Association in charge of its Protective Department, in an article in "Banking" published by his organization.

"Protective equipment will minimize if not prevent loss," Mr. Baum says, "such as the silent automatic type of alarm, approved tear gas systems, several styles of bandit resisting enclosures and timelocks, or safes equipped with timelocks, which can be set for intervals of a few minutes.

"The silent automatic alarms operate in the beginning of a holdup and through actions carried out by the bank employees in obedience to the bandits own commands. They are adaptable to the smaller banks which continue to be easiest targets for bank robbery.

Tear Gas Systems

"Tear gas systems have their advantages as self-contained protective units where outside aid is inconvenient or too remote from the bank to be effective. One objection to the use of tear gas in preventing holdup is the need of pressing a lever or button to discharge it. Although this necessary action seems too much to expect of the victims in a crisis where their lives are in jeopardy the fact remains that tear gas systems have defeated bank robbery. Its deterrent value is also important.

"Different styles of bandit resisting enclosures are available. The lock manufacturers also produce timelocks which can be set to open at intervals of five minutes or longer. These locks are especially adapted for attachment to small safes or chests for safeguarding surplus funds while the bank is open for business."