What is the Difference Between Armed and Unarmed Security Guards?
Security guards play a crucial role in maintaining the safety of various environments. They provide protection, security, and assess to the people also their presence is a strong obstacle to criminal activities.
There are two types of security personnel: Armed security guards and unarmed security guards. The basic purpose of both is safety and protection the key difference between both is their training which makes them suitable for different situations.
In this article, we will explore the key differences between armed and unarmed security guards, their limitations, and benefits which will help us to choose the right person for the right destination.
What are Armed Security Guards?
Armed security guards are the security professionals who use firearms during their security duties. They are highly trained to handle high-risk situations during violence and high criminal activities in different environments.
Training and Responsibilities
The prime duty of armed security guards is to ensure the security and safety of people, and property in different highly risky situations and environments. To perform their duties well they conduct tactical and firearm training to handle and use the weapons efficiently.
Firearm training includes understanding weapon safety, proper handling, target identification, and procedures for using a gun in different situations. Moreover, armed security guards also include duties like patrolling, monitoring, controlling, and responding to emergencies.
Security guards are trained to guard the high-valued jewelry, transportation of valuable goods, gold, and other high assets in banks and firms. These guards act as extra protection, their presence could reduce the risk of criminal activities before occurring.
Risk Assessment and Deployment
The hiring of armed security guards should be based on a risk evaluation, especially in areas with high-value assets or high crime rates. Training of armed security guards includes handling firearms and emergencies, providing a strong obstacle against crime.
Armed security guards are ideal for high-risk environments like corporate offices, airports, and VIP protection, where the security and safety of the property, goods, and people should be the first priority of the security personnel.
Licensing and Permits for Armed Guards
Mostly in authorities, armed security guards are mandatory to obtain licensing and permits to carry firearms.
This process involves the completion of firearm training courses, background checks, and in some cases, passing specific tests to make sure that the guards have the mandatory skills and proper knowledge to handle a firearm securely and safely.
Licensing and permits for armed guards vary according to region and private security companies are responsible for ensuring their employee’s safety and security.
For companies or businesses who are about to hire armed guards, it’s important to ensure that the guards are fully licensed, as working with unlicensed armed personnel can lead to legal consequences.
What are Unarmed Security Guards?
Unlike armed security guards, unarmed security guards don’t carry weapons. Both armed and unarmed security perform similar duties in terms of monitoring and securing areas, but their duties differ due to the difference in firearms.
Training and Responsibilities
Unarmed security guards get training in basic security rules and skills like patrolling, surveillance, customer services, and emergency response. They learned conflict resolution, using non-lethal methods to decrease situations.
Duties of unarmed security guards include These guards monitor CCTV cameras, conducting physical patrols, and ensuring that only authorized individuals are allowed entry into certain areas. Even though they don’t carry weapons their presence helps prevent theft, vandalism, and other crimes.
Also, unarmed guards are not trained to use weapons, but they are skilled in other security solutions like managing access points and dispersing potentially erratic situations without the need for force. Their primary role is to reduce criminal activity through their presence, ensuring the safety of personnel and property.
Deployment and Situations for Unarmed Guards
Unarmed security guards are mostly hired in low-risk environments, for example in retail stores, schools, hospitals, residential areas, and office buildings. They are often seen as less terrifying, which makes them more suitable for comfortable areas where the presence of weapons could create unnecessary alarm.
For example, in schools, community centers, or public events, unarmed guards can effectively manage safety and security by using their communication skills and inspection capabilities to prevent incidents before they increase.
Similarly, in retail environments, unarmed security guards can help in crowd management, help prevent theft, and make sure that customers feel safe without creating an unsafe atmosphere.
Costs and Budget Considerations
Cost is one of the significant advantages of unarmed security guards means they typically hire at a lower cost than armed guards. Without the need for weapon training, special licenses, or the purchase and maintenance of weapons, unarmed security guards are generally more affordable.
Businesses or organizations with economical budgets may choose unarmed guards as a more economical option for maintaining security, especially in environments where they have low-level threats.
Key Differences Between Armed and Unarmed Security Guards
When you are confused about choosing between armed and unarmed security guards, the following factors should be considered:
- Level of Risk: Armed security guards are mostly hired for high-risk environments, unlike unarmed guards are suitable for low-risk situations.
- Cost: Unarmed security guards do not require firearm training or permits so they are more affordable.
- Training: Armed guards handle dangerous situations so they receive extensive firearm training, while unarmed guards focus more on non-lethal techniques like conflict de-escalation.
- Legal Considerations: Unarmed security guards do not need any firearm license so they do not face legal hurdles while armed security guards should have a license to carry firearms.
- Customer Interaction: Unarmed guards should be desirable in environments where customer interaction is important, such as retail stores or public events, as their presence makes the environment less dangerous.
Choosing the Right Security Solution
Detailed risks related to your property, people, and events should be kept in mind while choosing between armed and unarmed security guards. To select the right security guard consider the following points:
- Nature of the Property: If your property and business contain sensitive data and valuable things you will have to apply an extra layer of protection as an armed guard. For example, jewelry stores, banks, and bulk storehouses may require armed personnel for high-valued materials safety.
- Crime Rate in the Area: Locations in high-crime areas or those that are more prone to violent incidents may warrant armed security. Armed guards can help decrease criminals and ensure a swift response in case of an emergency.
- Event Type: For high-profile events or VIP protection, armed security guards are often necessary to ensure the safety of materials, people, and dignitaries. Conversely, for small events or corporate events, unarmed guards are usually enough.
- Budget: Costs of security guards can vary widely depending on whether the guard is armed or unarmed. Armed guards typically cost more due to the required training, licensing, and equipment. Unarmed guards may be a more cost-effective solution If budget constraints are an issue, and the risk level is low.
- Public Perception: Considering how the presence of armed security may be perceived by your employees, clients, or customers. In some enteritis, an armed guard may instill confidence, while in others, it may cause undesirable alarm. Unarmed security guards may be much better for businesses that want to maintain a non-threatening atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the choice between armed and unarmed security guards depends on a variety of factors, including the level of threat, the nature of the environment, training and costs, and the specific needs of the business or event.
Both armed and unarmed guards play vital roles in safeguarding assets, ensuring safety, and providing peace of mind. Conducting a thorough risk assessment and considering all relevant factors will help you determine which type of security solution is best suited for your specific requirements.
Whether you decide to hire armed or unarmed security personnel, it is essential to choose a reputable private security company that provides properly trained and licensed security guards. The right security solution can help you protect your property, assets, and most importantly, the people who matter most.