Security guards play an essential role in ensuring safety and security in various settings, including businesses, residential areas, and public events. When it comes to hiring security guards, one of the primary considerations is whether to hire armed or unarmed security guards. Each type of security guard has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to understand the differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the difference between armed and unarmed security guards.
Armed Security Guards
Armed security guards are security professionals who are authorized to carry firearms while on duty. They undergo rigorous training and must hold the necessary licenses and permits to carry firearms. Armed security guards are typically hired in high-risk settings such as banks, jewelry stores, and other businesses that handle large amounts of cash or high-value assets.
Advantages of Armed Security Guards
Deter Criminal Activities
The presence of a firearm is often enough to deter criminals from attempting any criminal activity. Armed security guards are trained to handle potential security breaches and can react quickly in the event of an emergency.
Enhanced Protection
Armed security guards provide enhanced protection for businesses that handle large amounts of cash or high-value assets. They are trained to protect the assets from potential threats, including robbery or theft.
Quick Response Time
In the event of an emergency, armed security guards can respond quickly and efficiently. They are trained to handle high-pressure situations and can provide first aid, evacuate the premises, and contact law enforcement if necessary.
Disadvantages of Armed Security Guards
High Cost
Armed security guards are more expensive to hire than unarmed security guards. This is due to the additional training required and the cost of firearms and ammunition.
Increased Liability
Armed security guards are authorized to carry firearms, which increases their liability in the event of a security breach. Any use of force by an armed security guard must be legally justified, and any mistakes can have serious legal and financial consequences.
Unarmed Security Guards
Unarmed security guards are security professionals who do not carry firearms while on duty. They are typically hired in low-risk settings such as schools, hospitals, and shopping centers. Unarmed security guards are trained to handle potential security breaches and respond quickly in the event of an emergency.
Advantages of Unarmed Security Guards
Cost-Effective
Unarmed security guards are more cost-effective to hire than armed security guards. This is because they do not require additional training or the cost of firearms and ammunition.
Reduced Liability
Unarmed security guards are not authorized to carry firearms, which reduces their liability in the event of a security breach. Any use of force by an unarmed security guard is typically limited to physical restraint and does not involve the use of firearms.
Professional Demeanor
Unarmed security guards are typically hired for low-risk settings, where a professional demeanor is essential. They are trained to handle potential security breaches with a calm and professional demeanor, which can help diffuse potentially volatile situations.
Disadvantages of Unarmed Security Guards
Limited Protection
Unarmed security guards provide limited protection in high-risk settings such as banks and jewelry stores. They are not authorized to carry firearms, which limits their ability to handle potential security breaches.
Reduced Deterrence
Unarmed security guards do not carry firearms, which reduces their ability to deter potential criminals. They are trained to observe and report any suspicious activity, but they do not have the same level of deterrence as armed security guards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between armed and unarmed security guards depends on the specific security needs of your business or organization. Armed security guards provide enhanced protection and deterrence in high-risk settings but are more expensive to hire and carry increased liability.
