The program uses mock robberies in employees' current work environments to educate them in the dangers of an actual robbery situation and to improve the abilities of affected personnel in describing suspects and securing evidence. Prior to the mock robbery, alarm companies are notified and employees receive a briefing on the program's educational intent. They are instructed in weapon types, responding to robbers' commands, and in observation and description techniques. During the mock holdup, police officers are stationed around the establishment to provide security and to inform passers-by of the nature of the activities. The robbers are armed with revolvers or sawed-off shotguns; they take control of the business and involve everyone except those personnel who are not willing to participate. Nonparticipants may watch the excercise in a neutral area. Blanks are fired to add an authentic touch, but weapons are not fired near employees. Participants are encouraged to attempt the activation of the burglary alarm. A coordinator evaluates the employees' reactions during the holdup and their efforts to secure the building and evidence afterwards. Employees then fill out description forms and compare their descriptions with the actual characteristics of the robbers. A critique session follows. One week later, the establishments receive questionnaires with which they may suggest improvements in the program. Employees or businesses involved in actual robberies after completing the program are interviewed to determine if the training was effective. Such interviews have indicated that the program has been successful. Photographs are included.