5 Different Types of Security Guards
If you have a potential threat to your home or business, you need some kind of deterrent, so would-be thieves don’t visit your place. The best way to do this is to have a security guard.
Security guards help protect people while inspecting and patrolling property against vandalism, theft and other forms of illegal activity. Having trained personnel to maintain the safety and security of an event is vital, but not all security guards are made the same.
After completing a security guard training course, these professionals may specialize in different fields and industries. Each type of security guard has unique responsibilities, but their goal remains the same: to preserve and to protect. Here are five different types of security guards and their responsibilities:
Type #1: Patrol Guards
When you have a large area or multiple locations that you want to be guarded, a patrol guard is what you hire. They usually drive a marked vehicle to act as a visual deterrent and cover a wide area for surveillance.
Common places are on large school campuses or neighbourhoods and multiple business locations. They will make their motorized rounds and may use spotlights mounted to their vehicle as well as wide-coverage flashlights. Patrol guards will usually change their routine, so you can’t predict when they will arrive at different locations.
Type #2: Business Guards
Most people have seen this security guard inside and outside commercial and retail buildings. They are hired to protect a business, usually stationed at entrances. They also patrol inside stores to maintain a visual presence to deter illegal activity.
Some businesses require them to be there during operating hours. This includes locations like banks and retail stores. Other businesses need to secure their buildings overnight and have security guarding and patrolling around the exterior of the business location. They may also walk inside the building, check entrances and exits, and make sure doors are locked.
Type #3: Residential Guards
People hire security guards to protect their private residences. It could be because of an expensive home or a high-crime neighbourhood. Gated communities often have a secured entrance where guards protect unauthorized vehicles and people from entering. They may also patrol within the gates looking for any suspicious activity and be a first responder to any break-ins or property damage.
Type #4: Personal Guards
Personal security is commonly called a bodyguard, and they are hired to protect one person or a family. You have seen these types of guards protecting high-profile people like celebrities and sports stars. Some business people hire bodyguards for personal protection as well.
Famous people often get bombarded with fans and critics, and it can be overwhelming and sometimes dangerous. They need a physical buffer from the crowds, and personal guards are well-trained in self-defence and emergency protective protocols for any threat scenarios. They get to know their clients well, and the job is never the same day today.
Type #5: Event Security Guards
This guard is trained to coordinate with other guards and events staff. It is usually a large-scale event in a closed building or public. These events have many people and require multiple guards stationed at entrances and patrolling inside the event.
They are trained in threat detection and may monitor security cameras and contact emergency services like police, fire, and ambulance when needed. If there is an emergency, they will direct people to safety and evacuate key people to a safe location. It is a fast-paced job where the event guards need to watch bigger areas and crowds.
Most security guards have a uniform that makes them recognizable as security unless they work undercover. Depending on the type of security required, guards carry different equipment.
- Unarmed Guards These guards carry non-lethal equipment, including a flashlight, first aid kit, camera, note pad, pen and radio. Some carry zip ties or handcuffs to detain people and use reasonable force until police arrive.
- Armed Guards An armed guard will have all the equipment above but may also be licensed to carry a baton, taser, pepper spray, and a firearm, as well as wear a security vest. Armed guards can carry firearms if they guard cash or precious metals.
Other types of security guards
Other types of security guards are job-specific, like pipeline or fire watch security, but they serve a common function of protecting people and property. Hiring a security company to staff your home or business is often necessary for today’s climate. It is important to protect what is yours and keep your family safe.
When you hire a professional security guard, you know you and your belongings will be protected. Security guards are highly-trained and an effective deterrent and first responder to any emergencies and threats you may have.