Security Guards Complement Law Enforcement

Quality security guards are more in demand today, and remain a growing industry. By 2029, the private security sector is forecasted to increase by more than 250 billion dollars. Security guards do not replace law enforcement, but they can enhance security or address gaps or special needs that local police may not be able to handle due to their already full plates. As political tensions rise, and police often have fewer staff than necessary to respond to every call, they welcome skilled and professional security guards to supplement their services. Private security officers can serve as a filter for non-emergencies. Their presence in industries deters crimes and mitigates crowd and access issues, allowing police to respond to more pressing matters.

When Private Security Works

When companies hire private security guards, they often want protection of a specific person or asset. Local police do not have the staff to pay personal attention to the CEO of each business in every city. If there are active threats against a person, the demand is even more critical. However, the daily needs for retail, mall, and facility security remain and are better filled by a respected security firm. Security officers are effective at keeping away those with malicious intent, such as vandals, thieves, and crowd disruptors. Shoplifting is effectively deterred when a security guard is present and monitoring those who come in and out. Sales staff and cashiers can’t be responsible for watching every customer, but security guards are trained and highly skilled in this area. Most retail and malls would not think about having their stores open without professional security guards on site.

Tailored Security Measures

One thing that private security guard customers continually share is their preference for inside knowledge and understanding of how things operate in their unique situation. A warehouse is handled differently than a construction site, a corporate lobby, and a strip mall. Even VIP protection at an event is well managed by professionally trained security guards with the experience and backgrounds needed to be effective in their roles. Exceptional security officers know the ins and outs, literally, of their customers and are familiar with the risks and vulnerabilities unique to that location. In an emergency, if police need to arrive at the scene, it can take some time. Private security guards are trained to take immediate action to protect people and assets, detaining anyone who needs to stay put until the police arrive.

Using De-Escalation Tactics Effectively

The best-trained security officers have experience in de-escalation tactics that come from their backgrounds in the military and law enforcement. Often, an officer in uniform, whether armed or not, is a significant deterrent to crimes and crowd confrontations. However, when deterrence doesn’t work, trained security officers have the skills to discreetly handle situations and prevent them from becoming dangerous situations. When two people or more are in a heated argument and there is nobody present to help calm things down, the risk of someone being hurt or even killed is significantly higher. Many businesses and individuals consider private security guards a practical approach to safety and protection. In today’s culture, proactive is the best approach to threats and risks – hindsight is not something we want after a tragedy occurs!

Private Security or Volunteers

Whether private security or law enforcement, those who serve and protect are paid unless volunteer rotations are available. Many schools have community volunteers or parents, along with churches, clubs, and special events. The only downside to this is the lack of training and experience to deal with an emergency. Private security guards are a viable option for many due to the flexibility of security solutions and their costs. The fact is, security guards can alleviate the financial burden on the government by distributing it among the private sector, which seeks a high level of security, safety, and protection. Additionally, supplementing or filling needs with well-trained security guards from a reputable provider allows police to focus on 911 calls, follow leads on crimes, and interview suspects. Spending half a day in the lobby of an office building is not a viable option for any local law enforcement.

Emergency Preparedness

In an emergency, security officers provide immediate response to keep people and property safe. The police are called when a crime occurs, and clear communication and understanding of the need to clear a path and space can be lifesaving. Additionally, security officers can record audio and video, providing police with information that is helpful when there is little evidence otherwise.

Security guards do not replace law enforcement, but they can be an effective complement to their services. Security guards increase the number of authorities and support on the street, relieving some of the pressure on an overwhelmed police department. Businesses benefit. Taxpayers benefit. Police benefit. Citizens benefit. When considering private security officers for your business, church, school, residence, or special event, you can always rely on the excellent officers at Off Duty Officers, Inc. Since 1993, we have provided the highest level of trained and experienced security guards across industries. Contact us today for a free quote and find out how to elevate your security plan!