Armed security is one of the most expensive security services because armed guards are subject to additional training and licensing requirements. In addition, security companies who contract out armed guards must be properly insured and provide adequate ongoing training to their staff. Despite the extra expense, however, the presence of an armed guard can deter crime and keep your home, business, or event safe. Keep reading to learn how much armed security costs and when you should hire an armed guard.
Pikes Peak Security prides itself on offering the best armed guard services in Colorado Springs. Because our guards are almost exclusively ex-law enforcement or military, they have specialized weapons training and experience that an entry-level armed guard can’t match. Then we provide our staff with over 100 yearly hours of ongoing training to keep their skills sharp. Contact us for a quote if you need armed security for your next event.
Armed Security Guard Requirements for Colorado
Part of the cost for armed security guards comes from their training and licensing requirements. To become an unarmed guard in Colorado, you only need to be 18 years old, have a high school diploma, and pass a background check. You can be granted a license if you meet these criteria and pass a basic security officer training course.
To be an armed security guard in Colorado, you must be at least 21, meet all the requirements for licensing, and then complete additional training to receive a firearm or conductive energy weapon endorsement. The license and endorsement then need to be renewed yearly.
Insurance Requirements
Another significant cost for an armed security company is insurance. To get liability insurance, a security company must prove that its guards are properly trained and licensed. The insurance policy must also cover the use of firearms by security guards. A good insurance policy will protect the security company and its clients if a guard injures someone while on duty.
The Cost of Hiring an Armed Guard
Now that you know the requirements and costs associated with armed security, you can start to determine if hiring an armed guard is the right choice for you. The cost of hiring an armed security guard will vary depending on the number of guards needed, the length of time they are needed, and the specific skills required.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for a security guard is just over $17 an hour. This number, however, includes both unarmed and armed guards. It also does not reflect insurance and operating costs that will be passed on to the client. A cost comparison by Thumbtack, which tracks service estimates nationwide, says you should expect to pay $20-$25 an hour for a basic armed guard. Experienced armed guards with a military or law enforcement background cost between $60 and $100 per hour.
When Should you Hire an Armed Guard?
Since armed guards are more expensive, you may wonder if you can get by with an unarmed security presence. In some instances, an unarmed guard will be enough to deter crime and defuse potential conflicts. Unarmed guards will typically not engage in a conflict. They can, however, communicate with law enforcement and provide direction in an emergency.
You should consider hiring an armed security guard if you are hosting an event with a large crowd, have valuable merchandise on display, or are concerned about crime in the area. Bars, nightclubs, and casinos can also benefit from armed security. The presence of a weapon can discourage intoxicated guests from making poor choices. Armed guards can typically engage in conflict if necessary but will always attempt to de-escalate a situation first.
Armed guards are also a good choice for executive protection or a VIP security detail since high-profile individuals are more likely to be targeted for assault or kidnapping.
Benefits of Armed Security
There are many benefits to having armed security at your event or business. The most obvious benefit is the deterrent factor. The presence of an armed guard can discourage potential criminals from targeting your business or guests.
Armed security guards can also provide a sense of safety and peace of mind for your employees, customers, and guests. In the event of a crime or emergency, an armed security guard can quickly assess the situation and take appropriate action.
Armed security guards are also trained to de-escalate potential conflicts. By diffusing a tense situation, an armed guard can prevent it from becoming violent.
Hire an Armed Guard with Pikes Peak Security
If you are interested in hiring an armed security guard for your business or event, Pikes Peak Security can help. We offer armed and unarmed security services to businesses and organizations of all sizes in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. Our team of security experts will work with you to assess your needs. Then we’ll develop a security plan that meets your budget. Contact us today to learn more about our security services or to request a free quote.
