Irrespective of the progress in technology, security guards are a vital component in the security system of every building, whether it is a home, office, commercial building, retail establishment, restaurant, airport, railway station…the list goes on and on. The professional security officer is usually the first person on the scene and is trained to observe people around, as well as within, the premises.

Even though the crime rate is decreasing in New York, security guards are essential for homes, offices, educational institutes, and other public buildings to ensure the safety of people and property.

Security Guards

Security guards can be seen providing protection to the public in different locations including municipal buildings, retail stores, and office buildings. You will even find security officers working as transportation security screeners, and gaming surveillance officers. Some of these guards may even be armed so that they are readily prepared to tackle adverse situations.

The job of a security guard is not very easy. The vast majority of guards are on their toes either patrolling buildings and grounds or performing other specific tasks. In fact, many times, these professionals have to work for longer hours or in shifts to provide comprehensive surveillance around the clock. It is often seen that security guards have a good deal of contact with public and employees. Even though the work looks to be routine, it can turn hazardous quickly and without warning.

What Does A Security Guard Do?

Typically, security officers:

• Observe and report
• Monitor closed-circuit TV cameras for suspicious activities
• Protect the employer’s property
• Conduct random security checks in different areas
• Thoroughly check visitors before they enter the premises

Thus, it is imperative for these officers to remain alert, looking out for suspicious activities in and around the buildings they are guarding. They must be prepared to call the police, fire, or ambulance services for assistance during an emergency.

Sector-wise Job Responsibility

The job responsibility of a security guard varies from one employer to another. Thus, these professionals have to perform a myriad of duties as per the sector requirement.

In Retail Stores

Guards working in retail stores are responsible for protecting the people visiting the outlet along with the working staff. In addition to this, guards also ensure that all the records, equipment, money, and merchandise is secure. They are often involved with undercover store officers to avert theft by employees or customers, and detain shoplifters until the police arrive at the scene.

In Municipal Buildings

When protecting office buildings, banks, or hospitals guards ensure that law and order is maintained within the premises. They protect the organization’s customers, staff, and property from unruly clients who may cause a disruption in the normal day to day operation.

In Historical Places

For people visiting historical monuments, museums, exhibitions, or art galleries, security guards provide protection by observing all participants and inspecting packages and personal belongings upon entering and exiting the building.

In Highly Vulnerable Premises

The security guards working in government buildings, airports, railway stations, religious facilities, schools, and military bases protect critical information by checking the credentials of vehicles and personnel entering and leaving the premises. The step ensures that only authorized personnel can gain access.

At Universities and Sports Stadiums

Crowd control at universities and sports stadiums on game day is an uphill task. Diligent security guards work in coordination with police personnel to ensure things are always under control. Besides crowd control within the premises, the guards also supervise parking and seating, and direct traffic flow outside for smooth passage.

Transportation Security Screeners

Guards working as transportation security screeners shield people, transportation equipment, and freight at train stations, airports, and other transportation facilities.

Wrapping Up

A security guard is often the first point of contact for a visitor entering any premises. They are trained to judge people from their behavior and body language. Thus, they can observe individuals who have the intention of causing harm to others. Whether your New York building is residential or commercial, you must consider employing security officers, in addition to the latest security technology, to protect your premises.

Security officers are the need of the hour. Not only do you need to install modern technology like surveillance cameras, facial recognition software, and other advanced tools, but you also need to have security personnel deployed at the site to ensure tight security at work and at home.

With approximately 19,170 robberies, 16,606 burglaries, and 117,931 thefts reported in New York City in 2013, the citizens of NYC have every reason to worry about the security of their homes and offices. However security is the bright light at the end of the crime tunnel. There are many contract security guard companies in New York that can help you in your quest of securing the premises. These businesses provide different types of security personnel, all of which are capable of solving a variety of problems.

Forms of Security Force

• Front desk/guard gate
• Uniformed officers
• Plain clothes protection
• Unarmed/armed security guards
• Uniformed private labeled guards

You can invest in one of these security forces or can have a multi-layer of security forces to protect your premises. You may be comfortable with front desk/guard gate security to oversee your residential or commercial facility, or you may want to add uniformed officers or plain clothes personnel. However, the big question is why security guards are so important even in this age of advanced technology?

What Makes Security Guards Pivotal?

Rigorously Trained

Most security agencies hire personnel and provide rigorous training and licensing programs to ensure they provide their clients with skilled security personnel. These officers are trained in customer service, crisis management, threat awareness, anti-terrorism and many other critical areas, able to provide exceptional help at times of crises.

Crisis Experts

Most of these officers are well-trained in crisis and emergency management. Whenever the situation demands, the officers are up to the task, and they put their lives on the line to ensure you are safe & sound.

Professionalism

You will often see security officers wearing clean, crisp, uniforms maintaining a well-groomed personal appearance. They adhere to a strict code of conduct too, which is a testimonial to their professional commitment. Having such personnel around adds to the comfort level of office professionals and loved ones at home.

Wrapping Up

Whenever there’s burglary or theft, victims are usually very frightened by the perpetrators. Any personal help at the time of crisis is welcomed. While modern devices capture the images and videos that can assist the police to nab the culprit, the security officers present at the crime scene can often foil the robbery or theft attempt. Hence, having a security staff to guard your New York home or office is vital for the protection and peace of mind your family and staff deserve.