Baltimore Security Companies protect a company’s property, assets, customers, employees, and visitors. They patrol premises, write reports, respond to alarms, detain suspects until police arrive, and operate surveillance equipment.
They are also responsible for implementing safety protocols and legal regulations. Honesty, professionalism, clear communication and leadership skills are important in this role.
- Observation
Security guards monitor their assigned areas, use surveillance equipment and act as a visible deterrent to help prevent crime. They are trained to watch for specific signs of criminal activity and can quickly react if they see anything suspicious. This can involve contacting the police, detaining an individual suspected of involvement in criminal activity or using conflict resolution techniques to prevent situations from escalating.
Many security guards work in a corporate or industrial setting, where they patrol buildings and manage access control systems, such as cameras and alarms. They also monitor traffic and parking lots, manage escorts, check ID and guest lists, and respond to any security-related incidents.
School security officers, on the other hand, are constantly observing students and staff as they move about their classrooms and dorms. They are trained to identify and report suspicious behaviour, and are often the first line of defence when it comes to spotting drug or alcohol abuse, illegal substances or medical emergencies.
The most successful security guards are those who can think on their feet and respond appropriately to any situation they may face. They have a high level of training and experience to identify risks, react quickly and keep people safe.
A good security guard knows that they are a part of a team. They can effectively communicate with other security guards, clients and law enforcement personnel. They are also comfortable taking direction when necessary for the greater good of all involved. This makes them highly effective security professionals. They are able to defuse tensions, remain calm and make timely decisions in emergency situations. They are a critical part of any business or community and play an important role in keeping people and property safe.
- Communication
Security guards interact with customers and employees in a wide range of settings, including office buildings, retail stores, transportation hubs, events, hospitals and residential properties. The ability to communicate effectively and clearly is essential in these roles. Security guards are also tasked with monitoring surveillance equipment and the premises they protect, as well as following protocols to report any incidents.
A security guard’s visibility can act as a deterrent to criminal behavior, as they are often the first people to be alerted of any suspicious activity. Their clear communication skills can help defuse a situation before it escalates and provide leadership until emergency responders arrive on scene.
Depending on the industry and location, security guards are sometimes required to work in an armed role. Armed security officers are used to protect sites that require a high level of security, such as government and military installations, armored money transports, banks and casinos, as well as some commercial properties. However, unarmed security officers are more commonly used to patrol and ensure safety in office buildings, retail locations, apartment complexes and other private facilities.
While the majority of security guard duties involve patrolling the property, they may be asked to check credentials at a front desk, answer telephones, assist with parking or perform any other number of customer service-related tasks. This requires excellent interpersonal and communications skills as well as a detailed memory to keep track of any activity on the premises. These skills are especially important for school security guards, as they are usually the first authoritative figure students and staff turn to in emergencies such as a fight, fire or active shooter.
- Deterrent
A security guard’s presence can serve as a powerful deterrent against criminal activity. People who are considering committing a crime are less likely to do so in locations where they know there’s a visible security presence, especially if the guard is trained to notice suspicious behavior and take preventative action. They can also fill in any gaps in surveillance coverage and act as a valuable supplement to other proactive security measures like barriers and gates.
Security guards are typically trained in a variety of de-escalation techniques to handle tense situations. They use clear, calm communication to build trust and demonstrate that they’re there to help. They maintain a non-threatening posture and avoid physical contact unless necessary, and they can often diffuse conflict with empathy, respect, and a commitment to peaceful resolution.
They’re also skilled at documenting incidents promptly and accurately. This is crucial for both prevention and reporting purposes, as it enables them to identify patterns of criminal activities and work with law enforcement to prevent them in the future.
Lastly, security guards are familiar with emergency response procedures and can offer first aid if needed. They’re often the first to respond to medical emergencies at workplaces and are well-versed in how to respond to such events efficiently.
While security guards can have an important deterrent effect, they’re not able to stop all types of crime. This is why it’s important to create a comprehensive security strategy that includes both proactive measures and reactive services. A security guard’s primary responsibility is to protect people and property, so it’s vital that they understand the risks involved in their role and are prepared for any incident that may arise.
- Emergency Response
Security guards are trained to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations. Their training includes emergency response protocols, evacuation procedures, first aid, and CPR. They also receive training in assessing and communicating the severity of an incident. This allows them to make sound decisions and provide guidance for individuals in the midst of a crisis. They are also adept at coordinating with local authorities, fire departments, and medical services to ensure an effective response.
The visible presence of security guards acts as a deterrent to criminal activity during and after emergencies. Their uniforms, badges, and authority inspire confidence in those they encounter. This, in turn, discourages opportunistic criminals from taking advantage of chaotic situations to commit unlawful acts.
Security guards have the skills and knowledge to respond to a variety of medical emergencies, such as heart attacks and injuries. They are often the first to detect a medical incident, and can quickly identify the signs of life-threatening illnesses or injuries. They are also equipped with knowledge about basic first aid, which enables them to stabilize victims and prevent further complications until professional medical assistance arrives.
During an emergency situation, security guards can guide people to safety by instructing them to evacuate specific areas or designated safe zones. They can also help with the organization and implementation of emergency exits, assembly points, and other safety measures. In addition, they can assist with damage assessment and restore normalcy after a disaster.
The role of a security guard during an emergency situation can be challenging and dangerous. Security guards who are on the front lines may face physical danger, and communication barriers can arise in high-stress environments. Nevertheless, they can overcome these challenges by participating in regular emergency drills and training.
- Leadership
Security guards are a visible presence, acting as a deterrent to criminal activity and providing peace of mind for people or properties they protect. They collaborate with law enforcement officers and participate in training and drills to prepare for a variety of situations. They also perform safety checks to ensure that alarm systems, fire exits and other equipment are working properly. In addition, they may be responsible for diffusing situations that escalate into security emergencies.
The duties of a security guard vary depending on the industry or setting. For example, school security guards often work overnight and patrol hallways during the day to provide a safe environment for students and staff. They are trained to react quickly and calmly in the event of a fire, accident or active shooter incident and know the protocols to follow. They must be able to evacuate the premises swiftly while following proper safety precautions and knowing when to call law enforcement or paramedics for further assistance.
Many businesses hire security guards to keep a watchful eye on their premises, as employees are not always aware of suspicious activity. Security guards have the ability to spot a potential threat by observing unusual behavior, mitigating risks as they arise and communicating with law enforcement when necessary. They can also monitor security cameras and access points from a control room, interact with customers and visitors at the front desk of a building or office complex, and ensure that all areas are secure.
For individuals who are motivated by a sense of purpose and enjoy interacting with others, security guard may be the right career choice. These personalities are typically independent, stable, persistent, genuine, practical and thrifty. They are also conservative and conscientious.