We all know the old stereotype – security guards get paid to sleep at their stations and in their cars. This stereotype describes passive security. Passive security simply is not effective at maintaining safety and protecting assets, people, and property. The world needs active security. The best security services consist of active security officers constantly performing acts that ensure present and future safety.

Private security is a massive field consisting of over one million security officers in the United States alone. Every single one of these security officers should practice active security strategies.

Patrols

Patrols are an excellent way to practice active security. Patrols should be made frequently by security officers on site. However, patrols should always be performed at random with the path of the patrol constantly changing. Mixing up patrols provides better security because potential criminals cannot accurately predict the next patrol. Actively patrolling deters criminal activity.

Technology

Say goodbye to writing reports while on duty. Technology has advanced so that security personnel can communicate with one another and the client with devices. Cell phone and tablet use are on the rise for the best private security companies. These devices allow for reports to be written faster with voice recognition.

Most people can talk faster than they can write or type. Also, writing and typing requires time and attention on the screen or paper report. With voice recognition, live reports can be created while the security team is still performing active security service.

Security Cameras

Active monitoring is the process of attentively watching monitors wired to security cameras. Acquiring security cameras from the same company that a private security guard is employed by is an effective strategy because they are highly trained in the operations, functions, and limitations of the surveillance videos.

Additionally, a trained private security guard knows to never take his or her attention off of a monitor for too long because anything could occur at any time that could jeopardize the safety of personnel and property.

Experienced criminal offenders will attempt to seal their identities from security cameras.  If the video display units are actively monitored by trained private security personnel, then appropriate protocol can be followed. The local police department, security supervisor on duty, and the client will all be notified instantly while the act is occurring. The quicker the act is responded too, the more likely it is that the offender will be caught and arrested.

Failing to actively monitor security cameras with a trained private security guard could lead to unsolved crimes. Relying on the security footage after the criminal has already escaped with the organization’s valuables is failure.

Final Thoughts

Security professionals hope to never have to report an incident of a security breach. Security personnel hope nothing happens during their shifts. No activity usually means that the area is safe. However, just because there is not any activity from the criminal standpoint does not mean there should be minimal activity from a security standpoint.

Active security is the best security. Make sure your private security company practices active security strategies.