WHITE ROCK - Following recent robberies in White Rock, police are helping businesses protect themselves from theft.

White Rock RCMP is holding a crime prevention workshop on Wednesday morning at headquarters at 15299 Pacific St.

"We will just talk about some crime prevention tips that they could do within their own businesses to ensure they're not the victim of a crime," said Const. Janelle Shoihet.

The cardinal rule is follow instructions and give over the money, said Sgt. Manly Burleigh.

"Safety is paramount and no amount of jeopardizing your safety is worth any amount of money."

Last Tuesday night, a Caucasian man with strawberry blond hair and dark clothing robbed the Small Ritual Coffee Society of more than $1,000 at knifepoint.

A man of a similar description tried to rob the Coral Tea House on Marine Drive around 6:40 p.m. last Thursday during its soft opening. The pregnant clerk saw he had a knife, but four customers walked in after him and the man left.

"He got scared," said owner Tina Fang, whose shop opens this Saturday.

Shoihet urged storeowners to call 911 about suspicious activity, even if no robbery has taken place.

To attend the seminar, register by calling 778-593-3611 or via email at julia.everett@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

The workshop will start at 7:30 a.m.