Can you help me brainstorm security measures?
I work as a street musician. I have only played in safe towns, and I am getting ready to play in a city for the first time. My accordion lives in a large wooden box that collects tips while I am playing. I am worried that someone will run up and grab my box (like in the movie “Once,” my fave). Also, I will have a backpack with me that I would prefer to not have stolen, even though I won’t be able to wear it/hold it while I am playing.
I have already made a cardboard screen to cover the box with a slit for tips, so I think I’ve prevented bad guys just grabbing bills. I’m still worried, however, about the entire box, and my backpack.
I’m envisioning installing a big eye bolt in the box then chaining it, going through my backpack, to a parking meter or something. If there’s nothing to attach it to, maybe my leg, although that’s not ideal.
Can you think of anything? Any suggestions are much appreciated! Thanks!
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6 Answers
If the screen hides the cash, I think it will lower your tips. People are more likely to contribute if it looks like other people are contributing.
I once saw a guy arrive at an El stop, take his guitar out, and put a bunch of bills in the empty case. Seed money.
Over here especially at this time of year the streets are full of street artists of all kinds. They mostly collect money but don’t seem concerned about security. There are lots of people about and theft never seems to happen. I suppose it depends on where you play but I had never thought it might be a problem.
Leave some money out, so people will be more likely to contribute, but every so often put some of the money in your wallet, or in your pocket, don’t put all your money in one place. If you sit while you play, you can tie your backpack to your leg maybe? Also, can a friend help you by collecting some of the money part way through the night? I bet it is rare that someone is robbed while playing. Do be careful while walking back home or to your car though. Maybe don’t park in the same place every night, and don’t leave at the same time every night. Try to avoid perfect patterns. If you can walk with some of the other street performers back to your cars, safety in numbers.
I found a screamer that cuts out with a loud screech when it is separated, but that only happens after the theft.
If you are working in an area with other people, ask them to join you in putting your belongings in a safe place, such as a heavy lidded box.
For visibility, you can have your money deposited in a see through plastic box with a lid on it, and a weighted plexiglass base glued to the bottom.
Thank you all! I agree that hiding the money is bad, but the screen is mostly for wind (forgot to mention that). I’ve had bills blow away in gusts of wind.
Have a few “weights” to keep the bills down. Like paper weights. Show an example of the bills below the weights with a few dollars from your pocket.
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