Have you ever thought to ask yourself this question “who guards the security guard? Or who is responsible for the security of the life of my security guard”? Security guards are human beings too and deserve to be guarded don’t you think?

In previous articles, we have consistently shared tips and insights for personal, national, and industrial security, rarely have you read about security tips for security guards themselves.

At Sheriff Deputies we take the safety of our personnel very seriously without having to compromise the safety and security of the facility or persons we have been assigned to guard. It is important that security guards are educated in the area of personal safety because they are the main actors in crime prevention and public safety.

8 Most Important Tips for Keeping Security Officers Safe

In this article, we will be looking at the 8 most important tips for keeping security officers safe, and they are:

1. Explore different routes

When assigned for routine patrols, it is important that security officers alternate routes. As long as you vary your route regularly, criminals are less likely to target you if you are out of sight since they often monitor an officer’s movements.
Try to alternate your arrival and departure times on your patrols and avoid walking the same route every time.

2. Dress comfortably in protective clothing

Security officers face certain risks based on the area in which they patrol, and the crime rate. Provide protective clothing to your officers if they patrol alone or work in hazardous areas. An appropriate uniform and good footwear are also critical when physical activity is required, such as walking or running.

3. Know how security measures work

In order to deal with incidents as they occur, you should be familiar with security measures. If you experience an injury, a fire, or a burglary, you should know what procedures to follow. Learn how to detain a suspect so that law enforcement can arrive if you have to apprehend a suspect.

These tips are part of our officer’s training curriculum and our guards don’t get posted to any location unless they have demonstrated excellence in these skills.

4. Become familiar with the environment in which you work

Take the time to understand all the potential areas of trouble in your workplace. Take a walk along your route to learn where all the exits, staircase, and doors are. To avoid being ambushed or injured, make wide turns around corners. You should also notify supervisors if a light bulb burns out, any locks are broken, or any fencing gaps exist.

5. Be aware of your limitations

Should you decide to be a security guard and a successful one at that, it is necessary that you understand your limits. Call in the appropriate authorities instead of trying to diffuse the situation yourself if you notice a suspicious package at a building site you are guarding.

You should be aware of what to do in the event of an emergency at each of the sites that you patrol, so ask your supervisor for a clear job description for each site you patrol.

6. Equip yourself with security gadgets

In order to get the best results, you need reliable equipment that is in good working condition at all times. At the start of every shift, make sure all radios, CCTV cameras, and alarm systems are functioning. The use of mobile technology and close-range mobile device in security workforce management software has many operational benefits. Be sure that you have a fully charged mobile phone and that your in-ear buds don’t have cracks or faulty cords if you are using in-ear buds to communicate.

7. Take a look at your patrol cars

Check your vehicle before every shift if you participate in a mobile patrol. Make sure the brake lights and headlights work properly and look for leaks in the fluid, part of the reason why this is important is that response to incidents quickly is often a requirement for mobile patrols.

If you don’t arrive on site in time, a malfunctioning vehicle may pose a danger to others.

8. Take precautions

Don’t underestimate the importance of being prepared for any scenario. It is important to be prepared in case these types of situations arise, even if they are rare. Become familiar with the security protocols and procedures of the sites you patrol. Know how to reach the exits quickly from different points in the building.

Action Points

Besides implementing the 8 safety tips outlined above, security service companies should also invest in a solid security workforce management solution. The security officers’ safety will be ensured in this way.

Look for solutions that include real-time incident reporting, notifications, and security tools for lone workers, such as a panic button.

Even though this information will prove more useful to intending and active security guards, it is important for the general public to be educated in these areas to provide support to guards and equip themselves with tips for their personal security.

Sheriff Deputies officers have been extensively trained in the highlighted areas of interest and you will be doing yourself a lot of good by trusting us with your home and office security. Schedule a free security assessment of your facility today, Click here to get started.