Security Guard Baltimore Maryland serves as the alert, vigilant and diligent public face of DOI facilities and properties. They must be physically and mentally fit to perform strenuous duties.

They monitor retail locations, airports, transportation hubs, gated communities and other facilities to prevent unauthorized access, theft, vandalism, and other security breaches.

Security guards patrol premises to deter crime, and to promptly detect any unusual or suspicious activities. They may also check that alarm systems, fire exits and other safety features are in working order. In the event of an emergency, a security guard acts as a resource and point of contact with police or fire services.

Security officers patrol in vehicles, on foot or using a combination of both. They use a range of sensors and surveillance equipment to monitor the area they are assigned to patrol. They often wear uniforms and carry a weapon in some situations. Some security guards are employed by the company that they protect, known as in-house guards; others work on a contract basis and are deployed to multiple sites. Patrols can be logged via a tour patrol system, which requires a guard to physically mark the location of each patrol with a sticker, or with modern electronic systems that allow for remote and automatic logging.

Depending on their employer, patrolling can be a large part of a security guard’s job, and they are expected to keep accurate records and reports. Those who work in airports, public transportation or at special events frequently patrol outdoors and have the ability to check and clear passengers as they board and disembark.

A security guard who is trained in the skills of conflict de-escalation will be able to help diffuse and resolve a variety of issues, including complaints, disturbances or disputes. They can effectively interact with individuals of all backgrounds and remain calm under pressure, even in the face of a crisis.

Many security guards will also be tasked with operating a range of security-related equipment, such as x-ray machines or metal detectors. They will also be expected to conduct routine maintenance on the vehicles, equipment and security systems they are responsible for. This will include oil changes, battery replacements, cleaning of cameras and sensors.

Surveillance

The surveillance aspect of a security guard’s job is a crucial part of their overall security role. Guards are trained to look for specific signs of criminal activity, such as unusual behavior or people acting suspiciously. If they see a security threat, they can alert the police or use their conflict resolution skills to de-escalate the situation. Guards can also be used to monitor CCTV cameras or other security equipment on site.

Another part of their duties is to act as a visible deterrent to crime. The presence of security guards can help prevent theft, vandalism, and physical assaults. Many businesses hire security guards to patrol their properties and monitor the entrances and exits of buildings, as well as manage parking lots and other outdoor environments. Security guards may also be used in loss prevention roles, or to protect celebrities or other high-profile individuals in need of protection.

Many private organizations hire armed security guards, whereas some government agencies hire unarmed guards to perform similar security functions. Armed security guards must be licensed to carry firearms, and they are often trained to respond quickly to emergencies. They must be able to recognize and react to a variety of situations, from break-ins and car hijackings to bomb threats and active shooters.

Unarmed security guards are less likely to be licensed to carry weapons, but they can still provide valuable services in the workplace. They focus on observation, patrolling, and access control, and they work closely with law enforcement to prevent security breaches and other crimes. Unarmed guards can be found in retail stores, apartment complexes, and office buildings.

Although a security guard’s primary duties are to protect property and deter crime, they also must be able to effectively communicate with others. Guards must be honest, dependable, and clear in their communication with employees, customers, and the public. They must be able to handle all types of scenarios, and they need to be able to think on their feet. The ability to communicate clearly is especially important when it comes to responding to a potential threat or emergency.

Alarm Response

Alarm response is a crucial service that helps to prevent burglary and other types of crime at commercial properties and homes. When an alarm is triggered, it is sent to the contracted online monitoring company that alerts the security team to respond immediately. They use GPS mapping devices to locate the threat quickly and send their guards to the location. They are also equipped with walkie-talkies for communication with each other.

Alarms and alerts are triggered by fire alarms, environmental hazards such as floods or gas leaks, access control alarms, panic alarms manually activated by individuals in distress, and so on. A security guard’s job is to verify the source and cause of the emergency and ensure that appropriate personnel are notified and escorted off-site if necessary. This process may involve checking surveillance cameras, confirming the nature of the alarm with on-site staff, and communicating with local authorities.

Security guards are trained to deal with a variety of situations during an alarm or alert response, and they practice regularly using drills and simulations. They prioritize safety for themselves and others, follow established protocols for each type of emergency, and communicate with first responders and on-site personnel to ensure a coordinated response.

It is difficult for home and business owners to keep an eye on their property when they are away. With alarm response, they no longer have to worry about their house or office being broken into. They can rest easy knowing that their security team is always ready to respond to any threats that might arise.

It is important for businesses to invest in alarm response services for their peace of mind. The cost-effectiveness and enhanced peace of mind that these services provide make them a worthwhile investment for most companies. These services can also help to prevent costly damages and lost productivity. In addition, they can save businesses time and resources by eliminating the need to dispatch employees or call in outside contractors to attend a triggered alarm or alert. This can help to preserve work-life balances and improve safety for staff and customers alike.

First Aid

While security guards may not be medical professionals, they are often trained to handle minor first aid situations (e.g., bleeding, broken bones) and to alert emergency responders when someone requires more advanced care. They also document incident reports that help clients understand how and why things went wrong on their property so they can take steps to prevent future issues.

Some security guards are armed, which increases their physical presence and gives them the legal right to use force in extreme cases when protecting lives or property. This is a more specialized role and requires additional training. Licensing agencies don’t always make a distinction between “guard” and “officer,” which can lead to confusion, especially when it comes to union representation for security employees.