Finding security for your Orlando building, event or venue can be a daunting task as not all security guards are the same. Their purpose can vary greatly depending on the location and desired services by the contractor. It’s essential to keep this in mind when deciding the type of security you wish to hire, as your site may require a more active presence on the ground instead of a stationary guard. When it comes to security guards, there are several different types; today, we will be discussing nine different kinds of security guards and how they can best benefit your business.
Stationary Guards
We briefly discussed stationary guards earlier; their role is right in the name. Stationary guards stay in one specified location throughout their shift, monitoring their surroundings closely. They are often placed in strategic areas where they have a clear view of the grounds. These types of guards are frequently placed at entrances to the property or building to monitor those coming and going.
Patrol Guards
On the opposite end of the spectrum are patrol guards. Just as the name implies, they patrol designated areas, mindful of any suspicious activity throughout their shift. This type of guard is ideal for larger complexes such as apartments and shopping centers that cannot be fully observed from one location. Businesses can better deter trespassers from lingering on the property by having someone on the ground.
Event Guards
Organizers and event planners want their festivities to go smoothly with little to no interference. This is where event guards come in, trained to handle large crowds while remaining professional and courteous. Event guards are a must-have, especially for significant events, as they can help manage the group safely, avoiding tragedies such as crowd crush.
Residential Guards
These guards are located in gated communities, but they can be found on patrol in non-gated ones. Residential guards can perform functions similar to stationary guards and patrol throughout the neighborhood locations. They can be incredibly beneficial to your neighborhood as they act as a prevention measure for vandalism while helping those in your community feel safe.
Armed Guards
In order to work as a Florida armed security guard, individuals must possess a security D license or be a licensed private investigator. The Florida G license is required in order to work armed security. It is illegal to carry a firearm in Florida while working as a Security Officer, Private Investigator, Bodyguard, or Church Security Guard. Security guards can carry concealed weapons while working armed guard security if they possess a Security Class “D” License along with a Class “G” Firearms License on temporarily assigned duties. Security Officers can obtain a Florida Class G license if under 21 but cannot carry weapons concealed.
Personal Guards
While the guards we have discussed stay in a particular area or location throughout their shift, personal guards go wherever you do. Each day can be in an entirely new place in which they have to adapt to best fulfill their role. A private guard’s number one priority is your personal safety, making them aware and in tune with their surroundings so they can spot potential threats before they get too close.
Plainclothes Guards
If your building or location has been experiencing bouts of vandalism or theft, a plainclothes security guard might be the answer you’re looking for. These guards are dressed as everyday customers, keeping watch so they can stop theft in plain sight. Not only can they address loss prevention in stores, but plainclothes security can also monitor apartments and neighborhoods for package thefts.
Uniformed Guards
Unlike plainclothes guards, uniform guards want to be seen. They are a visible deterrent that can be used alongside plainclothes guards. For example, a store could have a uniformed guard in the front greeting customers while a non-uniformed guard patrols the aisles.
Proprietary Guards
The final type of guard we will be going over is proprietary guards. These guards are not contracted from third-party services but are hired directly by the company or firm. For example, many of the security personnel at Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are hired directly through the company. Proprietary guards are ideal for large-scale firms where third parties would be too costly or unable to provide the appropriate number of staff.
These are just a few types of guards that could benefit your business. While their purpose and skillset can vary greatly, you are sure to find one or two that fit the criteria you’re looking for. Contact our team here at Apex Security today to inquire more about the kinds of services we provide.