Safety is one of the – if not the most important – aspects of running a successful business. Even if you’re not a business owner, maintaining an optimal level of safety at all times is vital. This is especially true if you’re a high-profile individual who attends various events and travels a lot. Truth be told, potential safety hazards are lurking at every corner, and this is something you don’t want to take chances with. Because optimal safety levels start with a continuous security presence, hiring a security guard is the next logical step. The question is: How do you find the most suitable one for your needs?
Whether you’re looking to hire personal security or are in search of the ideal solution for keeping your residential or business premises safe, here’s a list of different types of security guards and what they do to help you make an informed decision.
Static vs. Mobile Security Guards
A common type of security guard, static security guards, is there to ensure the safety of a building both inside and outside. From banks to offices to stores, you’ll generally see these guards protecting commercial buildings and retail businesses. They are typically positioned near the exits or entrances of the buildings, and they’ll operate in a fixed area while providing constant surveillance and acting as visual threat deterrents.
While these security guards tend to be more stationary, there are other types that focus more on providing constant security presence outside the building. These are referred to as mobile guards, and they’re usually hired to cover a specific area or location and watch over it. While they often use vehicles for mobile patrols, sometimes they’ll cover smaller areas on foot.
Armed vs. Unarmed Security Guards
Depending on the client’s needs, they may also hire armed or unarmed security guards. The former carry firearms and weapons, trained in weapon handling as well as handling violent conflicts. They ought to go through various training, and they also must obtain certification that’s mandated by the state they’re in. They may be hired for particular events, such as conferences, but they may also be needed on construction sites.
As for the latter, they’re the ideal option for jobs with low-threat levels. Despite not carrying guns, they’re the most commonly hired type of security guard. Whether the client needs a visual crime deterrent, surveillance, or patrolling, unarmed security guards will address these needs adequately. They’re also trained to de-escalate critical situations thanks to the mediation training they receive, and although they aren’t equipped with firearms, they often have things such as pepper spray or a taser on hand.
Event vs. Executive Security Guards
Another option clients seeking security have when it comes to hiring security personnel are event security guards. Trained for everything from crowd control to physical conflict management, event security guards are often the first thing that comes to mind when talking about the security industry. Often compared to club bouncers, these guards are in charge of preventing unauthorized entries from guests, making sure they don’t bring in any prohibited items, and maintaining order in general.
While these guards are in charge of keeping the guests safe, there are types of security guards that focus on providing private security to VIPs, politicians, and celebrities. According to Global Security Consulting Group, a reputable risk management company, guards providing executive protection services receive a variety of training. These include tactical and weapons training as well as training in unarmed combat and defensive tactics. Whether there’s a confrontation to de-escalate or avoid, or a crowd that needs to be handled, executive security guards fit these roles perfectly.
Residential Security Guards
If you’re a homeowner, property manager, or a member of a HOA, you know that even the most modern residential properties aren’t immune to security threats. Whether we’re talking about apartment buildings, rentals, or local neighborhoods, security personnel are pretty much a necessity when it comes to deterring vandals and thieves and preventing criminal activities. From thefts to vandalism to attacks and trespassing, there are a variety of safety risks that residential properties and their occupants are exposed to.
Residential security guards are ideal for handling these tasks – they’re trained for everything from conducting neighborhood watches to responding to security incidents. They’re also in charge of controlling who accesses communities and often the ones to guard neighborhoods at night. If you’re looking for reliable security on a regular basis, this type of security guard is what you need.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re looking to stay safe while on the go, ensure your business’ safety, or make sure your property is protected at any given moment, having reliable security measures in place is a must. Security guards can give you the peace of mind you need and ensure optimal protection. Now that you understand the roles and responsibilities of different types of security guards, finding the right fit for you should be a breeze.
