7 things security guards should have while on duty

Unsurprisingly, security guards tend to carry a lot of gear. This is especially true when it comes to unarmed security guards. It is important to have proper training.  It is also important to have the right equipment.  Most security agencies provide their security guards with equipment.  However, it is ultimately the responsibility to be prepared to have the basic things necessary to work as a professional security guard.  Here is a list of seven items all unarmed security guards should carry while on duty.

The flashlight is arguably the most important piece of equipment that an unarmed security guard should carry. If you are assigned to patrol during the day, you should still carry a flashlight even though it may not seem necessary. There may be dark areas you need to patrol. If you work inside, you will need to use the flashlight in the event of a power outage.

You can even use a flashlight as protection. A flashlight can be an effective defensive weapon to ward off an attacker.  Of course, it is advisable not to attempt to use flashlight as a weapon unless you have been properly trained to do so.  Maglight flashlights are incredibly popular among security officers and police officers due to their durability and bright light.  There are some security guard agencies that prohibit Maglites.  As a result, many guards are starting to prefer the versatility or short tactical flashlights.  Regardless of style preference every guard should always have a flashlight.  Avoid cheap flashlights.  Most seasoned professional security guards do not purchase flashlights that cost less than $10.00.  The Husky Model 99289 is an affordable tactical flashlight you may want to try.

At a minimum all security guards must observe and report while on duty.  As a result, all security guards should carry a pen and pad. Even when working a site that has computerized reporting systems, it is still important to carry a pen and pad as a backup.  If you observe anything strange or unusual during your shift, you can jot it down using the pen and pad.  As a security guard, you won’t be able to run back and add notes to your patrol log or enter things into a computer as they happened.  The pen and pad will allow you to note down any details to preserve your memory and allow you to accurately record the details in the official patrol log.  It is recommended that you use a notebook that is waterproof.  Here is a good one.

Whenever you’re on duty, you should carry your security license. If you report any incidents to the police, you will usually be asked for this security license to confirm your position as a security guard. The vast majority of jurisdictions require security guards to keep their security license on them whenever they are on duty. In many cases it is unlawful not to do so.  If you are found without your security license, your jurisdiction may site you for the infraction.

As an unarmed security guard, you should have quality footwear.  As a security guard you spend most of your time on your feet.  Smart security guards choose to wear boots or shoes with rubber soles rather than leather soles. Footwear with rubber soles tend to have far better traction. This will prove helpful even if you patrol areas inside because tile floors and other surfaces can be very slick and slippery, especially when wet.  Rubber soles also assist you in maintaining your footing when engaging suspects.   Many prefer Nike Boots.  Those working posts that require a shoe this is a good option from Galls

To be successful with any career, it is necessary to dress well for success. You are certainly not exempt from this rule simply because you are a security officer. The truth is people tend to take security guards who are dressed well more seriously. If you are dressed well, it shows that you are dedicated to your job. Civilians will be more likely to respect your authority while criminals will be less likely to try their luck with you. The average criminal would rather test someone who appears to not care about keeping their job.

Security guards should have heavy duty gloves as well as Latex gloves on hand. You will use the Latex gloves if you have to deliver first aid for any reason. The heavy duty gloves will protect your hands and allow you to get better grip on your baton and other gear. During the winter, the gloves will protect your hands from the cold if you work outside.  Use gloves like these

Just because you are unarmed does not mean you can’t wear a duty belt. The duty belt will give you an easy way to carry all your gear. Not only is the duty belt practical in that it will give you easy access to equipment like gloves, keys, and flashlights, but it will also make you look more official.  Uniforms Warehouse has some of the best duty gear deals.

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