Baltimore Bodyguards effectively deter crime and act as first responders in emergencies. They patrol their assigned areas, check doors and windows, and look for suspicious activity.
In this role, a short attention span and disengagement won’t get you far. Here are five essential skills you need to succeed as a security guard:
A security guard’s observation skills allow them to notice any suspicious activity nearby. This includes seeing people acting out of character, unusual vehicles or objects in the area, or anything else that could pose a threat to property or safety. Observation skills also help security guards monitor the location they’re protecting, as well as its layout and blind spots. Having a solid grasp of the premises allows them to react quickly and effectively in emergency situations, such as responding to an incident involving a fire or other dangerous situation.
In residential settings, a strong pair of observation skills allows security personnel to act as visible deterrents against intruders and uphold community regulations by regulating entry and overseeing crowds. Observation skills are also necessary for identifying potential threats during public events, such as concerts and weddings, to discourage unauthorized activity, keep attendees safe, and handle unexpected incidents that might arise.
Security guards are required to complete regular reporting as part of their duties. While most of this reporting is normal and involves things like completing logs, it’s essential that guards take note of any extraordinary circumstances they discover. This might include a broken sprinkler system, an unsecured door, or any other issue that should be reported to the right people immediately.
To develop effective observation skills, it’s important for security guards to practice regularly with a partner or instructor. This helps to improve their reaction times and ability to remain alert throughout long shifts. Taking frequent breaks during work also helps a security guard maintain optimal levels of attention and performance. Exercise is another excellent way to build observational skills, as it can improve the body’s physical and mental health and reduce stress.
Communication
Effective communication is a crucial skill for any security guard to have, as it allows them to build and maintain relationships with colleagues and clients, provide clear instructions, and document incidents accurately. This includes verbal and non-verbal communication, as well as written communication. Security guards are also required to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, which requires proficiency in a range of languages.
During training, security guards learn how to use different methods of active listening and empathy, which are important for building trusting relationships with colleagues and clients and defusing high-pressure situations. This is particularly true when dealing with members of the public, who may be acting in an agitated or angry manner. For example, a security guard who notices that a situation with an individual is escalating can ask them to take a time-out or request assistance from a supervisor to avoid the situation from escalating further.
Other aspects of effective communication include the ability to listen actively and remain calm in challenging circumstances, as well as using positive language and body language. This involves being mindful of non-verbal cues, reflecting back what the other person has said to ensure understanding, and asking open-ended questions to understand the other person’s perspective.
Other important aspects of effective communication are note-taking and report writing skills, which require attention to detail and the ability to articulate ideas clearly. This is particularly important for security guards who are responsible for investigating and preparing reports on incidents, as these documents must be accurate and contain all relevant details to be of value. Finally, it is essential for security guards to have good spelling and punctuation skills as they must be able to write concisely and accurately.
Leadership
Whether patrolling, monitoring an area or responding to a security incident, the best guards are confident and capable in their roles. This requires the ability to assess a situation and determine how to respond, which may involve de-escalating a conflict or even taking action such as detaining a suspect until police arrive.
Security guards are a visible presence that acts as a deterrent to criminals, helping keep people and places safe. They work a variety of shifts, including nights and weekends to provide 24/7 coverage at commercial properties, residential buildings, event venues and other types of businesses.
The job responsibilities of security guards vary, but often include controlling access to a property, checking IDs and vetting visitors, operating surveillance equipment and conducting routine patrols of premises. They also monitor alarms and other disturbances, writing reports, investigating incidents and enforcing rules and policies within their scope of duty.
Large venues with crowds such as concerts and ball games often require security personnel to manage the flow of people, control access to the venue and function as a visible deterrent to bad behavior and unsafe practices. They also help with emergency response by contacting authorities and providing first aid when necessary.
Both armed and unarmed guards are needed at many locations to protect facilities, equipment, employees, customers or visitors from theft, vandalism, terrorism, trespassing, fires, explosions, natural disasters and other hazards. Armed security guards are trained to detect and report suspicious activities, as well as serve as a physical deterrent.
The terms “security guard” and “security officer” are used interchangeably, but officers have more responsibility and exercise a greater degree of independent judgment than guards. Officers often oversee teams of guards and train them to function seamlessly in their overall security operation.
Deterrence
Security guards are a visible deterrent, which helps to prevent criminal activity by making would-be thieves and vandals think twice about committing such crimes. The presence of a guard is often enough to make them reconsider their plans, as they are trained to recognize and respond to potential security threats. This is why security guards must be able to remain calm in stressful situations and use their skills to defuse any potential incidents.
Security personnel work in a variety of settings, including commercial properties, residential complexes, events, retail locations and transportation hubs. In these facilities, a security guard must be able to monitor security cameras and access points, interact with visitors at a front desk and patrol rooms and hallways for suspicious activity. They are also responsible for ensuring compliance with rules and regulations, such as no smoking and loitering, and reporting any violations.
A security guard’s responsibilities may also include monitoring security alarms and investigating disturbances or emergencies, which means they must be able to communicate with emergency response teams and law enforcement. They are also required to follow legal guidelines and regulatory requirements, and they participate in drills to prepare for any potential situations.
Lastly, security guards who work in retail locations must have the ability to prevent loss or theft of merchandise by patrolling high-value product areas and monitoring surveillance cameras, investigating any suspicious behavior and working as liaisons with local law enforcement when theft occurs. In some cases, security guards are authorized to detain suspected thieves until police arrive.
While security guards and officers have different responsibilities, both roles require extensive training. Security guards must have a high school diploma and complete a security guard certification program, while officers are typically required to meet more rigorous qualifications and receive ongoing training in areas like safety protocols, firearms use (if applicable) and conflict resolution.
Emergency Response
Security guards are equipped with extensive emergency response training to ensure they are ready to take quick and effective action in a variety of situations. They are familiar with evacuation strategies, fire safety protocols, and first aid/CPR techniques, enabling them to stabilize individuals in medical emergencies and assist until professional help arrives.
When it comes to managing a crisis, security guards have the ability to remain calm and provide clear instructions to those around them. Their training teaches them to assess the severity of a situation, make critical decisions, and communicate effectively to prevent confusion and panic. They also understand the importance of maintaining order in a chaotic situation, ensuring that all necessary resources are available and accessible when needed.
Another important aspect of security guards’ emergency response skills is their ability to coordinate with external responders and authorities. This is crucial to coordinating the delivery of necessary resources and responding quickly, which can potentially save lives. Security guards are trained to relay pertinent information about the incident to emergency services and building management personnel, including information about the number of people affected, the exact location of the emergency, and any specific hazards present.
In cases of fire emergencies, security guards are often the first responders on the scene. They are trained to use fire extinguishers and evacuate occupants through pre-determined evacuation routes. In addition, they are familiar with all evacuation protocols and can quickly locate exit points to minimize the risk of panic or a stampede. Additionally, security guards are familiar with the locations of any AEDs on the premises and can activate them as necessary. They also participate in regular emergency drills to hone their skills and improve their knowledge of current safety protocols.