Security guards are the first line of defense when it comes to protecting property and people. The level of protection that a security guard can provide, however, varies between jobs and jurisdictions.
Security Guards and Police
One main job function of security guards is to deter illegal activities. Most of the time, simply being a presence, in uniform, is enough to deter would-be vandals, thieves, or trespassers. However, it is not the responsibility of the security guard to detain a criminal suspect and make an arrest. Instead, they are required to get a handle on the situation using several tactics:
- Speak with the individual and let them know they are breaking the rules of the establishment
- Attempt to de-escalate any potential situations and get the person to leave the premises
- Involve law enforcement if the person refuses to leave or the situation continues to be a problem.
The security guard generally will not physically remove the person. What they do, however, is be the important go-between. Security guards are the link between potential criminals and the police.
After the incident is addressed and no danger remains, security guards will go on record and help create a report that will be accessible to the police and property management.
Security Guards and Fire Rescue
In the case of fire, typically, security guards are charged with calling in fire rescue even if flames are not present. No matter how insignificant a situation may seem, if it involves potential fire, it’s better to be safe than sorry. The safety of people is paramount. If the event flames are present, the fire department will be called even before the security guard picks up a fire extinguisher to try to control the fire.
One important function of security guards during an actual fire situation is crowd control and/or directing traffic. If a building is on fire, a crowd is likely to gather. When that happens, it is vital for the crowd to be kept at a safe distance and that firefighters have room to do their life-saving work. And because security guards are also the most familiar with the layout of the building or campus, they become urgently needed members of the fire rescue operation.
Security Guards and Paramedics
Though most of our security guards have a background that includes CPR training, the last thing any of them want to do is to have to use it. Unfortunately, emergency health situations arise. Retirement community security guards are one example of officers that do well to have CPR certification. However, if an emergency occurs in which someone loses consciousness and stops breathing, the first course of action will be to call for emergency medical help and any additional authorities. If CPR is administered without backup on the way, security guards are putting their careers at risk, which they should not be expected to do. Therefore, CPR is the last course of action when it offers the only potential to save a person’s life.
All in all, security guards don’t last long in their careers if they aren’t caring, highly responsible people. Reputable security companies will be able to boast employees that have been with the company for a long time.