Security Guards Reducing Crime Rates Across Industries

The reality is that trained security guards are the most significant measure of crime deterrence available, whether for an event, at the store, in the office lobby, the parking lot, hospital, bank, or school campus. The veil that led people to feel safe and secure with surveillance equipment has been lifted, and people now realize that when security and safety count, only in-person and skilled professional security guards deter crimes. Every business, including residential communities, is at risk of crime. Criminals do not discriminate when it comes to victims, and they will seize any opportunity that is vulnerable and unprotected. Think of areas impacted by natural disasters – criminals rush in to take advantage of people in their most difficult times. Criminals simply do not care, which is why security guards have such a significant impact on crime rates when they are present.

Security Guard Presence Deters Crimes

Walking through the mall, entering a secured site, or a gated community involves interacting with a uniformed security officer. Although most people do not have a criminal mindset, the visual presence of security guards, whether armed or unarmed, deters people from misbehaving. Law enforcement and police establish authority, but in their absence, security guards can effectively help protect the public. Trained and skilled security professionals take pride in their roles and provide comprehensive security protection, including risk assessment, continual monitoring, and emergency response.

Although security guards are not the police, and have some limitations, they do provide support and serve a unique purpose in private security. Private security guards are an excellent way to provide preventative security because their presence and attentiveness make criminals think twice about targeting that client.

Growing Demands for Security Guards

There are several reasons we have seen an uptick in security guard requests by private parties and corporations. One of the most significant concerns is the understaffed police and law enforcement teams in cities and areas, especially those with high crime rates. As departments are stretched, they can rely on consistent skills and excellence from companies like Off Duty Officers. Another reason found to feed the growing demand for high-quality security officers is urban population growth and growing cities. Residential areas and businesses want to protect themselves and their assets. The best way to do this is through a private security presence. Protecting assets is a growing concern for many Americans. Protecting a building, assets, tenants, customers, or residents is a significant factor in many success stories. If it matters, it should be protected by whatever means necessary.

Which Crimes Are Deterred?

Security guards on location can deter many crimes. The most common types of crimes that are shown to be hampered by a security presence are thefts, break-ins, vandalism, and violent crimes. Although the best security officers have military and law enforcement backgrounds and training, they are limited and must defer to law enforcement in violent crime scenarios.

The most significant findings include security guards impacting crime rates on the street and in neighborhoods, in public transport areas, and shopping areas. Some retail chains have realized such a significant drop in crimes due to security presence, and they now prioritize this expenditure in the annual budget. Guards at entrances and exits of events, construction sites, neighborhoods, and public buildings are responsible for a significant reduction in crime rates.

The Plus Side of Private Security Guards

The apparent reason to hire private security guards is greater protection of people and assets. However, the plus side and benefit of hiring private security guards is the message it sends to the community. Many cities and venues see trust built through private security guards, and their presence elevates the feeling of safety and gives people peace of mind. Think about the last time you went somewhere. If you saw a security officer, you may have felt safer, and it allowed you to focus on why you were there. If there were no security guards present, perhaps you felt less sure about others' behaviors and were distracted by things that seemed unsafe.

Surveillance Alone is Incomplete

Instead of surveillance equipment being the only measure for private protection, security guards in combination can offer the highest level of safety. Surveillance may be able to identify a criminal, but only after the fact. Home security systems are helpful due to their alarm and dispatch capabilities; however, if a crime does occur, reviewing video footage is often not useful in identifying the criminal or catching them. The combination is a much more effective approach to deterring criminal activity for private and commercial purposes.

If you are thinking about private security guards for an event, your business, or another site, please get in touch with Off Duty Officers for the most comprehensive and highly rated security solutions in the nation. We do not require a contract, dispatch qualified guards promptly, and take pride in the service we provide every customer. We take security and safety seriously and always offer hassle-free quotes!

Call us today at 844-947-1905!