Crime and theft pose growing threats for today’s businesses. While electronic security systems provide an important line of defense, there is no substitute for trained guards with boots on the ground. Hiring professional manned security services can benefit companies in a variety of ways, from deterring criminal activity to responding swiftly when incidents do occur.
This article explores key advantages of contracting with a guard company and how to choose the right provider for your needs.
The Rise of Risks Facing Businesses
Risks come in both internal and external varieties. Internally, employee theft and fraud results in staggering losses. Externally, break-ins, vandalism, and even violence threaten the safety of staff and customers alike. Police response times can be slow, giving criminals a wider window to inflict harm. Without an onsite guard presence, many businesses remain vulnerable to these dangers.
In contrast to electronic security, manned security services put capable eyes and ears on your property. Live surveillance beats cameras and alarms hands-down. Uniformed guards provide an unmistakable warning that criminal behavior will not be tolerated. Such visible deterrence works to proactively halt crime before it starts. Should an incident occur, guards can respond immediately to minimize damage and loss.
Key Benefits of Contracting With Manned Security Firms
1. Deter Theft, Vandalism and Other Crimes
The mere presence of security guards acts as a powerful deterrent against internal and external risks. Some studies report up to a 50% reduction in criminal activity for sites with active guard patrols. Would-be thieves think twice when confronted with real obstacles to crime. Knowing that vigilant guards are monitoring the premises day and night discourages those looking to do harm.
Highly visible armed and unarmed patrol units in marked vehicles reinforce the message that illegal behavior will have consequences. Signage and warning notices further establish defenses against crime. By hardening your vulnerabilities, guards create a strong blanket of protection around facilities, assets and people.
2. Provide Ongoing Monitoring and Surveillance
Investing in security personnel buys you more than just deterrence—it purchases exceptional observation skills. Guards keep continuous watch over all access points along perimeters and sensitive interior zones. Active patrols cover more ground than stationary CCTV cameras. Officers take note of suspicious vehicles, unauthorized access attempts and unusual activity that might elude electronic systems.
Highly trained security workers act as an on-the-ground intel source. Keeping accurate records allows guards to notice anomalies and develop insights on patterns. Security teams work closely with local police to provide witness statements and other investigation essentials when required. Their evidence helps bring charges and prosecute criminals successfully.
3. Enforce Facility Safety Rules and Protocols
Uniformed officers fill a range of rules enforcement duties essential for smooth facility operations. Checking IDs and managing visitor passes helps keep out unauthorized individuals. Screening visitors against confidential banned lists provides another layer of protection against risks. Protective patrol units secure infrastructure and assets around the clock.
Guard personnel play a pivotal role in enforcing emergency response and safety protocols as well. They direct evacuations, provide emergency medical response, operate critical systems and take charge until first responders arrive. Guards also enforce policies designed to maintain productivity, such as prohibiting smoking or dealing with disruptive trespassers.
4. Respond Decisively to Emergencies and Threats
When confrontations, crimes-in-progress or other emergencies do arise, security teams leap into action. Live phone monitoring connects guards directly with police dispatch for fastest possible response. Specialized vehicles, protective equipment and tactical training prepare personnel to halt criminal plans in their tracks. Certified guards have legal authority to pursue and detain suspects until law enforcement arrives.
Guards are also critical first responders for workplace injuries, fire, chemical spills and other onsite calamities. Their emergency medical training and rapid interventions save both lives and corporate resources. When crisis strikes, security guards have the specialized tools and knowledge needed to minimize disruptions.
5. Foster Greater Peace of Mind for All
The sheer visibility of uniformed guards fosters a greater sense of security and comfort for employees, customers and the public alike. Their presence reassures people and promotes confidence in an organization’s stewardship. Knowing that trained security teams are protecting lives and property allows businesses to focus on core activities.
Customers also equate guard presence with stability, safety consciousness and credibility. Security patrols provide high-profile loss prevention while helping maintain orderly, pleasant shopping environments. A vigilant security force represents corporate values of integrity and trustworthiness. Guard services demonstrate an enterprise-wide culture of lookout and protection at multiple levels.
Key Questions to Research Before Hiring Manned Security
What business types typically require manned security?
A: Major corporations, critical infrastructure sites, healthcare and cultural facilities generally have the greatest security needs. Retail, hospitality, entertainment and education also rely heavily on guards. Regulations mandate guards for cannabis dispensaries, bars and certain high-risk industries. Evaluate your specific regulatory obligations and risk profile.
What training credentials and qualifications matter most?
A: Look for reputable guard companies that screen applicants thoroughly and provide extensive training. Important certifications include first aid/CPR, firearms handling, defensive tactics, legal authority and apprehension procedures. Continuing education ensures guards refresh perishable skills.
Do K9 units and marked patrol vehicles enhance protection?
A: Many companies find K9 teams and patrolling guard transports with emergency lights/sirens boost perceived authority and deterrence value. Evaluate costs against potential benefits for your risk scenario. Also research any public relations implications.
What laws and regulations govern private security services?
A: Stringent state and federal requirements dictate licensing, use of force, weapons prohibitions and allowable duties. Research all legal obligations before contracting to avoid liability issues. Insist on fully licensed, insured and bonded guard services.
How should companies evaluate security vendors and get quotes?
A: Interview multiple providers in depth. Ask about staffing resources, patrol techniques and reporting standards. Request customer references and check backgrounds carefully. Get bids specifying exact services deliverables along with all equipment and tech infrastructure included.
Conclusion
In an age of elevated risks, manned guard services provide hard-to-match protection. Visible deterrence combined with intelligent human observation acts as a formidable barrier to crime. Quick response capabilities minimize incidents and consequences when they do happen. The sense of safety and confidence guards inspire ripples across internal and external stakeholders as well.
Today’s advanced selection of contract security firms enables businesses to tailor robust solutions specific to their needs. Investing in round-the-clock monitoring, patrols and emergency response buys peace of mind money can’t easily replace. Consider adding these invaluable human resources before threats escalate. With reputable security partners safeguarding premises, companies can focus more energy on nourishing growth.
