Security Guard Companies In Baltimore Maryland are licensed professionals whose job is to protect property, people, and assets from an array of threats. They patrol assigned areas, monitor surveillance systems, and respond to alarms or incidents.
They use verbal communication or physical intervention to defuse situations that arise, collaborating with law enforcement officers when appropriate. They also enforce regulations in crowded settings such as event venues or bars.
Security Guards are always visible, creating a sense of safety and deterring people who may try to commit crimes or cause disturbances. Their uniforms are usually bright, which can also act as a visual deterrent to potential criminals. Keeping up this appearance also ensures that security personnel are able to see anyone entering the premises, and if they aren’t sure whether an individual should be there, they can ask them to leave or alert authorities. Security guards should be able to use all of their senses, noticing any strange odors and sounds as well.
The presence of a security guard can be enough to deter many types of criminal activity, especially if it is a unarmed security officer. They can also help prevent theft, a common problem at retailers and other businesses. The simple act of observing people around the building and doing an “ocular patdown” can be enough to dissuade shoplifters or other thieves from attempting anything illegal.
Controlling Ingress and Egress
Unarmed security officers also manage the access control points for a property, verifying identification and ensuring that only authorized individuals gain entry. They perform regular patrols throughout the premises, inspecting different areas and identifying any security risks. They also inform and guide staff, guests, and visitors about security procedures and protocols.
Guards are also on the lookout for changes in behavior, such as nervousness or fear. They should be able to notice any threatening language or gestures, and know when to contact law enforcement and other emergency responders. Security guards can also assist with crowd management at events and other venues, directing attendees to their designated locations and providing reassurance and assistance.
Observing, evaluating, and reporting are critical tasks that can make or break security guards’ careers. Using location tracking technology, like Lighthouse, can help to improve the visibility of front-line guards and ensure that they are available for incidents as quickly as possible. It can also provide the ability to create digital logs of incidents, reducing the time needed for security managers to get on top of them.
Alert
Security Guards are able to quickly assess situations and determine the best course of action to keep people safe. This includes having the ability to identify threats and potential hazards before they become an issue, like fire, bombs or suspicious packages. It also means being able to communicate effectively with colleagues, police and other emergency personnel when needed.
Being able to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and policies is a big part of the role, as it helps ensure that everything is done correctly and in accordance with regulations. Security Guards should be aware of all the rules and regulations that apply to their specific area of work, including WHMIS and any other operational policies or personal protective equipment (PPE) that must be worn.
Guards should also be aware of their own limits, both in terms of physical strength and stamina. This helps them to avoid being overly involved in situations that could put their safety at risk and also prevents them from getting into trouble with the law. For example, if a guard becomes aware that a suspect may be under the influence of drugs they should know how to address this in a safe manner – for example, not making unauthorised arrests and instead handing the individual over to police.
Security guards are often the first to arrive on site and the last to leave, so it is important that they are ready to respond to any situation that arises during their shift. This includes completing a thorough patrol of the premises before they start their shift so that they are familiar with all potential entry and exit points, areas that might be susceptible to criminal activity and other hazards.
Being alert and prepared also means knowing how to deal with any emergencies that might occur during a shift, such as dealing with trespassers, controlling access to private property or inspecting bags. This is why it is vital for security guards to be familiar with any emergency response procedures that are shared with them by their employer, as well as understanding what type of behaviour a suspect might display when they are under the influence of drugs and alcohol and how to handle this accordingly.
Prepared
Security Guards are well prepared to handle a variety of emergency situations. They undergo rigorous training programs that teach them how to assess the gravity of a situation, make snap judgments under duress, and act quickly to safeguard individuals and property. They’re also trained in evacuation procedures, CPR & first aid, and how to use equipment like fire extinguishers. Additionally, they participate in regular drills & exercises that simulate emergencies so they can practice their response in real-life scenarios.
Security guards are often the first responders in emergency situations. They’re skilled at remaining calm & composed, communicating clearly & concisely with the public, and coordinating with other personnel during high-stress situations. In addition to their extensive training, they’re skilled at identifying warning indicators of aggression or violence, and know how to defuse conflicts with verbal & nonverbal communication strategies.
In the event of a fire, a security guard ensures everyone can escape to safety by directing them to exits & controlling crowd control. They can also help to prevent the spread of fire by ensuring all fire-related hazards are eliminated (e.g. flammable materials, overheated wiring). If the incident occurs at a workplace, they’re trained to identify & contain safety breaches, and alert their management to any damage or injuries sustained.
In addition to their reactive roles in emergency response, security guards also play a proactive role in educating the community about safety measures & promoting awareness. They are often a visible presence in the neighborhoods they protect, and work to foster positive relationships with the local residents. This community engagement can be invaluable in the event of an emergency, as they’ll be more likely to trust & cooperate with security officers in stressful situations. They’re also trained to report all alarm & alert incidents to their superiors & clients. This helps to create better & more effective emergency measures in the future. Including increasing patrols, installing more CCTV cameras, or implementing additional security precautions. This will ultimately protect the communities they serve, and provide a more secure environment for people to live, work, & play.
Responding
Security guards often act as the first line of defense during an incident. They are trained to assess the situation and respond quickly and efficiently, ensuring that all individuals are safe. Their duties may include: detecting suspicious activity; enforcing rules and policies; responding to alarms, disturbances, or emergencies; documenting incidents; providing customer service assistance; and operating surveillance equipment.
Security Guards are often the frontline in an overall security operation, monitoring entrances to buildings and other facilities to ensure that only authorized personnel enter; conducting regular patrols of properties or events; interacting with guests and visitors; reporting incidents; and performing emergency preparedness drills. Security Guards also serve as a visual deterrent to potential criminal activity by wearing uniforms and carrying badges that display their credentials.
When a security threat is detected, Security Guards are trained to assess the situation and take quick action, which may include contacting law enforcement, detaining an individual suspected of criminal activity, or using conflict resolution techniques to de-escalate a dangerous situation. Security guards are also trained to communicate clearly and calmly, helping to ease panic or escalation.
In the event of an emergency, security guards are trained to activate their facility’s emergency response protocols and to remain calm throughout a crisis. They are familiar with all types of emergency situations, including fires and medical crises. They also provide clear instructions to people affected by the disaster on what to do next, & offer comfort & support.
Many security guards are also trained in first aid, allowing them to assist those who have been injured or traumatized during a crisis. During evacuation procedures, they are essential in upholding order and directing individuals to safety while maintaining crowd control. Security Guards also help to coordinate with emergency services by relaying critical information and assisting in guiding them to the scene.
Security guards are also trained to conduct post-emergency procedures, assessing the effectiveness of their response and determining areas for improvement. This can include re-establishing communication lines, coordinating with law enforcement, and identifying key areas of concern that may affect future emergency responses.