Security Guards can get a bad rap. Derogatory terms like "rent-a-cop" give the impression of a frustrated, would-be policeman who couldn't make the cut.
But this profession is filled with serious practitioners who work to make our lives more secure.
My most pleasant encounter with a security guard came at the Department of Motor Vehicles. On this day, no one there was quite sure how to process my particular request, so I was getting shuffled from one person to the next. Finally, one of the DMV employees motioned for security. Over sauntered a heavily-muscled armed guard.
Yikes. I hadn't gotten irate with anyone, so I wasn't sure why they wanted to bounce me out of the building.
To my surprise, though, they calmly explained my predicament. He took me over to the appropriate desk, and even identified the form I needed to fill out. A sharp guy, as well as a great deterrent to potential trouble-makers.
This year alone, contract guards were involved in thwarting pirate attacks aboard the MV Almezaan as well as the Maersk Alabama.
A good security guard can save your life, your business, and get you through a DMV line faster. So don't let me hear you say "rent-a-cop" again.
Read More: Do You Need an Armed Guard?
Comments
Thanks for the article. Private Officer International has been working hard for six years to upgrade training requirements, professionalism and the security officer’s recognition.
In 2009, 64 security officers were killed in the line of duty. 27.000 were injured and security officers made 1.1 million arrests and apprehensions!
Great article. But I must say there is much more to be said. I have been an Armed Private Security Officer in Virginia for about 10 years, I’ve seen meatheads come and go. There are many great Officers in my profession. Many of us are highly trained in various aspects of protection and safety.
Contrary to popular belief, we don’t just fill out an application and slap on a gun. There is much more involved.
For instance, the more reputable Security firms require the Officer to maintain training in First Aid, CPR, AED, Arrest Procedure, Report Writing…. and the list goes on. That’s not to say that every Security Officer you encounter will be a high caliber employee. But more often than not, you will encounter a professional that has your safety and well-being in mind.
So next time you go to a business, just keep in mind that the Security Officer is not there to be abused and mocked.
I’ve seen it many times… The same people that make fun of you and laugh at tour job will often ask you for help.
We are people too folks. Respect goes both ways.