Securing US Ports Against Illegal Activity

In protecting the major US Ports, the role of security officers is multifaceted, and it is critical to have trained and skilled guards monitor activity and mitigate risks related to port activity. The top ports in the US include Houston, South Louisiana, Corpus Cristi, New York, and New Jersey. These ports are trading at more than 773 million dollars annually, and this is just the top four ports of the top 50. With so much at stake in these vulnerable locations around the nation, companies are finding top-level security to safeguard operations and prevent crimes and illegal activity. Efforts should be made at every US port to allow safe and legal trading operations to occur without theft, crime, or risk of trafficking and drug smuggling. Maritime and port security must be trained and specialize in the needs of these roles because the buildings, cargo, and vessels must be monitored and protected. Port security officers are among the best trained due to the need for excellence on all fronts.

Transferable Skills Relevant to Port Security

Although skilled security guards have a particular skill set, many with backgrounds in law enforcement, those who serve at ports are unique because they bring experience to their roles. Understanding what activities are suspicious, how to monitor the continual activity at the port, and engaging with workers and passengers are all part of the role. Highly trained security guards inspect cargo, oversee parking, and assist in keeping the port entries and exits clear during disembarkation. Log keeping is a task that must be done meticulously in ports, including reporting any incidents. Lately, incidents that occur in a pattern can identify a bigger threat or an organized crime attempt. Professionals coordinate with security guards, law enforcement, and port workers to create a safe and secure port anywhere in the US. Maintaining and monitoring security and emergency equipment is another task that maritime security officers are well versed in performing.

Adhering to Port and Maritime Protocols

The protocols in place at ports nationwide help mitigate the risks related to trading imports and exports. The vessels can be massive, and buildings and storage areas, including dry dock locations, can be immensely challenging to continually watch, which is why many active and busy ports choose multiple officers to support the most excellent security. Following protocols is critical due to maritime law and the risks associated with non-compliance with the statutes and operational standards expected. At Off Duty Officers, we dispatch highly trained and skilled port security personnel who protect ports from illegal activity, including unlawful stowaways and trafficking of people, drugs, or anything else. Cargo is protected by watchful and skilled eyes trained to identify suspicious activity and prevent crimes and mishandling of hazardous materials and weapons. Ports are also a known target for terrorist attacks, and organized crime can be identified by someone with the knowledge and understanding of how ports operate and what is out of place.

Maritime Security Guards Identify Risks and Hazards

Busy ports bustle with activity morning, noon, and night. Beyond theft and illegal activity, hazards and risks related to port operations are a real and present danger. Maritime security officers have experience identifying spills, falls, heavy machinery and crush hazards, loads of cargo overhead, and flammables in the area. Identifying and mitigating these issues in coordination with port staff and workers is the best way to keep the port running smoothly and safely. Many known incidents that occur in ports can be prevented with knowledgeable overwatch. Early identification, recording, and mitigation can prevent fires, collapses, spills, accidents, bomb threats, worker and passenger injury, and criminal activity. As our nation becomes stronger, the threats become greater. Instead of waiting for a disaster to occur, taking a proactive approach is the best way to protect our ports.

A Proactive Approach to Port Security

Armed or unarmed security guards create an authoritative presence at US ports. An authority figure who is trained lets it be known to outsiders that criminal and illegal activity will not be tolerated. We have much at stake in protecting our ports due to the high value of trade occurring, as well as the vulnerabilities to illegal activity. Their sheer mass and continual activity make it necessary to hire only well-trained and experienced security guards in this field. At Off Duty officers, we hire officers with backgrounds and experience in law enforcement and the military who want to serve by protecting US ports. Certified, licensed, and insured officers remove the burden from the port and allow that extra level of security our US ports deserve. Preventing theft, trafficking, and other illegal activity is only part of the training and experience, but we offer the most comprehensive security solutions in the industry. Contact us today for a free quote at 844-947-1905 or click here to contact our maritime security coordinator. We don't require contracts, and we're committed to helping you keep American ports safe and secure!