A security officer’s job is to keep others safe. But while considering the safety of others at workplaces, events, and more, it is also important that the officer also stays safe, too. In fact, keeping security officers safe on the job is the best way to ensure they can keep the entire community safe. And unfortunately, professions that revolve around security and safety do come with a measure of risk. Because of this, we can prepare security officers so they are trained and ready for the task at hand.
At Pikes Peak Security, safety is of the utmost importance. Whether we’re putting together a unique security plan for our clients or training our officers, we use our years of experience to ensure the highest quality of security services, while training our officers to stay safe in the industry. Here are some additional ways to keep security officers safe while on the job.
Vary Your Route
Security officers can often be assigned to a route, or beat, where they are to inspect a number of checkpoints. One important part of being a security officer is varying your route, because always taking the same route becomes predictable. Criminals often monitor an officer’s movements so they can commit a crime while the officer is out of sight. In order to keep things unpredictable and make planning a crime more difficult, officers should vary the routes they take and change things up. Keep in mind to also vary your arrival and departure times at those checkpoints as well.
Be Mindful of Workplace Hazards
Some security officers will be working in commercial buildings, where hazardous materials might be used and/or transported. If this is the case, it is imperative that security officers are briefed on what those hazardous materials are and know the dangers surrounding them. When a guard knows if a substance is of particular interest to thieves, it helps them know how to best guard the area. Security officers should also have a full understanding of protocols to be followed in case of exposure to the hazardous item.
Wear Appropriate and Comfortable Clothing
It might sound odd to think about the clothes you’re wearing as a security officer. However, guards should be dressed appropriately so they are able to perform their duties. If a security officer is patrolling a dangerous area, for example, they will need to wear protective clothing. In some instances, officers might be standing and walking quite often, so it is important to ensure they have comfortable and practical shoes so they will have a good range of motion and won’t accidentally slip on the job. Keeping the comfort of the uniform in mind also comes in handy depending on the climate they are working in.
Be Mindful of Corners
Corners create an element of surprise, which some criminals might intend to use. Walking around a corner quickly or without much thought, especially in an unsafe area, can allow a criminal the opportunity to hide. It could also give them the chance to ambush a security officer. When walking around a corner, simply take a wide approach. This will help eliminate a potential threat, because no one can spring out from the other side and cause an issue.
Maintain a Safe Distance from Suspects
You never know how a potential suspect might act or react, and it is important to keep this in mind when interviewing them. Security officers should remember to speak to people outside of arm’s reach and maintain a safe distance. Keeping enough space between the security officer and the suspect provides the opportunity for the officer to react, should the suspect try to attack at any time.
Be Prepared With Emergency Procedures
Security officers should be prepared for even the worst case scenarios. For example, do they know what to do in the event of a fire, an earthquake, or a fatal injury? There are emergencies that can impact any kind of building where an officer might be stationed, and a security guard can make the difference between chaos and safety. It’s important to memorize exits, understand that location’s security protocols and procedures, and run drills to make sure the information is retained. Knowing the procedures involved in an emergency can improve response time.
Understand Your Limits
Security officers do whatever they can to protect others, but it is still important to understand their own limits and know when other assistance is needed. If an officer notices a suspicious package left at a building and it could be a bomb threat, for example, they will need to know the proper authorities to call to come handle that security risk. Part of a security officer’s job is knowing when to defer the responsibility to another party who is best suited to handle the situation at hand.
Safety First | Pikes Peak Security
As a premier security service in Colorado, keeping everyone safe is our priority–and that includes keeping our own security officers safe. Through our extensive training and excellent customer service, we strive to make any experience a positive one as we provide high quality security services across Colorado Springs, Denver, and more. Contact us today if your business is in need of security services, and let’s work together to keep your workplace, event, or community safe.
