Security Guard Protocol

It is typical to see a security guard in a location and dismiss it without much thought. However, your mind is registering someone on-site is explicitly placed to ensure protection. The expectation is and should be that these uniformed men and women have related security backgrounds that qualify them to serve in these critical roles. It should also be assumed that these security guards have had additional training, best preparing them for handling current threat trends.

Depending on the event or venue, or assignment, any security guard role that requires the use of a weapon, training will be ongoing. This continued training should be part of the placement agency’s protocol — continued education and specific training in areas that benefit from private security guard personnel. Excellent private security guards provide the most up-to-date and best protection available.

Did you know that security guards are not supposed to leave the station or area to which they are assigned?

Many movies and television shows portray security guards chasing criminals off-site and wrestling them down blocks from the original location. Even though this theatric scene often ends in the security guard being a hero, with lights and police coming in at the end of the struggle, it is not security guard protocol. Due to the nature of private security assignments, the location where they are placed is also under their protection. Security guards, most likely having a military, or law enforcement background, are needed where they are stationed. Due to extensive training, these brave men and women can more effectively assist law enforcement if they stay at their posts and call the proper authorities. They know the terminology, the process, and what information is helpful. They are also professionally trained, calm, and composed even when the situation is chaotic. Security guards are also able to perform emergency first aid until help arrives. Even though many people claim to have first aid training, it is different from having previously performed these demanding tasks and being comfortable doing what is needed.

In many cases, private security is hired to protect property, assets, or events. In these instances, the security guard chasing someone off-site leaves the very thing being protected vulnerable. Plan ahead, do some research, and find a reputable security guard placement provider with experience providing the type of security you need. Call for a free quote, and they should know which questions to ask and how to make sure your needs are met. If it is worth protecting, it is worth spending some time finding an excellent security guard provider. Here are a few things you look for to make sure you find the best fit:

Company Testimonials

Testimonials are an incredible way to get a sense of people’s experiences with the company. Most reviews or testimonials have dates, so you are able to see any trends and current reviews. Be prepared for the one-off review of an unhappy customer, but often you can see the company’s response to a dissatisfied customer. You can get a good sense of the integrity of a security guard provider from the customer reviews.

Review a Security Guard Company’s Mission Statement

Starting with a quick review of a company’s mission and purpose statements can tell you valuable information about a security guard placement firm. Company policies should also be public knowledge and easy to find on a website. Typically, you can find a code of conduct and how outlying situations are handled. You want to get a sense of the level of professionalism and their accountability.

Professional Guard Training

It may take a little time searching to find out what kind of additional training a private security guard placement firm requires of their personnel, including background checks and drug screenings. You can look at the jobs and careers, and you will get a good idea of what is required to work there and what additional pieces of training are highly sought after. They may even disclose additional training offered to employees.

Areas of Expertise

There are many areas of expertise in private security. From residential gate guards to individual yacht staff to large and small event monitoring to private parties and VIP protection, there are a variety of levels of security you can hire. In the case of a small, intimate private event, you would not need the services of a heavy combat-trained guard. Also, at a large event, you may want multiple guards. An experienced coordinator can help you determine which level of guard you need, how many and find something that works for your budget.

If you are considering hiring private security, do not take any risks. Take a few minutes and check the website for these things mentioned above. Do your part to hire the best available guards. Finding a reputable nationwide provider means you have more options and a coordinator who knows security guard protocol and will employ those trained to adhere to those standards.