10 Essential Security Equipment a Security Guard Must Have

A security guard faces serious responsibilities. So, come prepared and make sure that you have all these essential tactical gear placed on your belt or uniform while on duty to deal with the inevitable dangers.

There are different types of security guards and the profession of a security guard is quite challenging as it requires proper qualifications and certifications, it requires you to stay alert for protecting the area assigned and vigilant throughout the duty hours. You are responsible need to you by your employer. Performing such a critical and vital job requires lots of security equipment, from a simple flashlight to a handgun. Therefore, it is critical for a security guard to have the essential qualities and know about the essential and functional equipment at their disposal to protect himself and the property as well.

Here we have listed the essential tactical gears a professional security guard in California must carry while on duty. (Or, you can say that these are the pieces of equipment a security guard can’t live without.)

Flashlight

A flashlight is the most important equipment for a security guard, especially if he is an unarmed security guard. Even if you are on a day job where using flashlight may not be necessary, it's still crucial to be equipped with one as you have to patrol the dark areas away from the daylight. A flashlight is also useful when you guard the inside areas in the event of power outage. You can also use a flashlight in your defense from any possible attackers. Although you don’t need training in order to own a flashlight, there are several programs you can opt for to learn the use of flashlights in different scenarios. Generally, these programs train you in 3 techniques including high thrust, mid-level thrust, and a low thrust. Make sure to use heavy duty and long metal flashlights.

Security Guard Batons

Like flashlights, a security guard baton is the functional piece of equipment for the guards on duty. It is one of the oldest tools being used by law enforcement agencies to control and disperse mobs and violent people. It can be used for self-defense against an attacker. It is also a visual deterrent sending a message to people that it can do some damage if you pull out this from your belt. In some US states, you are required to undergo a training course to use a baton while on duty. Most baton training courses generally cover the topics including uses, first aid for baton injuries and basics of handling.

Boots

You must choose a pair of boots that are lighter, faster and can go well with extreme conditions like cold, heat, rain, snow, and mud. This is because a job of a security guard involves walking around on patrol throughout the shift. Make sure your shoes are comfortable and water resistant. A pair of cheap shoes will not only hurt your feet, but will also wear out easily. Generally, security boots cover the foot and ankle and extend up the leg. If your recruiter gives you the freedom to choose the boots, you can purchase boots used by police officers as they are very comfortable and protective as they are especially designed for the job nature of the law enforcement agencies.

Security Guard Belt

A security guard belt is more than being a part of the security guard uniform. It makes it easier for a guard to carry other tools like their handcuffs, a baton, their radio and flashlight. Therefore, keep it streamlined and organized to make the most of it. Choose the one equipped with holders for everything you’re placing on the belt to keep the things in your access. You must purchase a heavy duty belt made from a quality leather or nylon with an average width of 2 ½ inches.

Pepper Spray

Pepper spray comes handy to prevent any possible attackers if you want to avoid fighting them. The product is used straight towards the face and eyes of the attacker who is facing you, making them feel as if their eyes and face are on fire. Most states require you to undergo the training of pepper spray which covers the uses in a safe and reliable way through both practical and classroom session. The UDAP brand of pepper sprays are recommended because of their efficiency and great reviews.

Cell Phone

Although security guards are equipped with walkie-talkies and other radio type devices, a cell phone gives them an ability to quickly call the police or fire department in an emergency. Make sure to put all the important numbers on the speed dial so they can be dialed immediately.

Binoculars and Digital Camera

Binoculars let a security guard monitor illegal activity from the distance, thereby making a security guard’s job easier to react on that suspicious activity. You can also carry a digital camera to capture the images of the crime scene or prepare footage for any explanations to authorities about the activities and circumstances that took place.

Handgun

A handgun is the important piece of equipment for an armed security guard and is categorized into the revolver and a semi-automatic gun. However, the revolver is the commonly used weapon as it is easy to handle and less likely to jam than its semi-auto counterpart. A gun is a powerful security weapon and also plays a visual deterrent role while protecting the property from criminals.

Handcuffs

While every protective gear is essential for a security guard, handcuffs are arguably the most utilized tool as they are helpful to mitigating the injury risk to the criminals. Most of the security officers place at least 2 handcuff sets on their belts so they can deal with the multiple offenders single-handedly. They are used to keep the convict in control until the police arrive. There are various models and brands of handcuffs to choose from, though the widely used sets are made of carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.

Bullet Proof Vests

Bulletproof vests are as essential as handguns for a security guard while dealing with the armed criminals. Needless to say, the bulletproof vests minimize the risk of fatal gunshots by absorbing the bullet impacts. They are must for the security personals working in high-risk areas. It not only reinforces your safety but makes people take you more seriously. Ask your employer to provide you bulletproof vests before your appointment at critical areas.

These are the list of essential security equipment a security guard must carry while performing the duty. They not only offer them self-defense from any possible assaulters but also help them protect the people and infrastructure in an area they are assigned to. Make sure to purchase only the quality and durable security guard tactical gears. Combine equipment with your expertise and dedication to provide efficient security service.

A good security guard service provider is very much familiar with the above-mentioned equipment and if you want to hire, the leading security service providers in California, you can contact Secure Guard Security Services.

What are the Requirements and Qualifications to Become a Security Guard in California?

Becoming a security guard in California is quite challenging and requires you to undergo certain training and certifications.

The crime rate has been increased in California over the past few years. Therefore, residents and business are hiring security guards to protect their people and property as well.

While the ever growing demand has benefitted the security guard business, the career of becoming a security guard has become a great choice in this state as there are types of Security Guards anyone can hire.

Many professionals are looking for security guards jobs in California for better salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the security guard job vaccines will increase 19 percent from 2010 to 2020. The job of a security guard provides a wide range of opportunity for those who like challenges and can live up to the strict requirement set by the State of California.

A job of a security guard is to safeguard the people and the property of the area assigned to him by patrolling, inspecting, monitoring and deterring the crime.

If you want to be a security guard, your training and certificates will be instrumental in turning you into a reliable and efficient security guard.

However, you must know that security guard licensing procedure is quite complex in California. BSIS or Bureau of Security and Investigative Services issues licenses for security services in California in multiple categories including security services operation, training, and licensure.

A professional security guard is required to undergo the course including powers of arrest, weapons of mass destruction/terrorism awareness, public relations, observation and documentation, communication and its significance, liability/legal aspects and other elective courses that vary depending upon the training facility and type of unarmed license desired.

What are the Requirements for Registration?

Security guards are employed by licensed private patrol operators or private security employers to protect persons or property or prevent theft as defined in Business and Professions Code (BPC) Section 7582.1.

You have to apply through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Service (BSIS or Bureau).

Following are the guidelines prescribed by BSIS for licensing the applicants: 

• The applicant must be 18 years or above.
• The applicant should have experiences of receiving training from PPO or BSIS certified facilities.
• Applicant must pass a criminal history background check performed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and BSIS.
•  A fresher must undergo an 8-hour “Power to Arrest” training course and pass an examination at the end of the course with a 100% score in accordance with the Manual’s Administering Instructions. The attendant must have a Certificate of Completion given by the trainer.
• Applicant is required to submit a set of fingerprints using Live Scan, along with the application and ATI number.
•  If applicant passes the criminal background check, he is fit for a security guard job and must wait for interim license.
•  Applicant is also required to undergo 16 hours of security training from any certified company within 30 days after receiving the interim license.
• Applicant must undergo additional 16 hours of training within 6 months of receiving the interim license.
•  To obtain a firearm permit, an applicant should pass a 14 hour bureau course and the exam at the end. Besides, an applicant has to submit a firearm permit application and send it to the BSIS.

(NOTE: If the security guard is unable to complete the training within the deadline, his security license can be terminated.)

For more information, you can contact Secure Guard Security Services, the leading security guard service provider in California.

So these were the qualification and training you must have to become a security guard in California.

While certification and training are essential for your security guard career, you must possess other essential qualities to become a reliable security guard like dedication, honesty, alertness, communication skills and an ability to serve the client’s needs. 

6 Qualities That Make a Good And Reliable Security Guard

A job of a security guard is challenging as they have the responsibility to protect the people and the area. Therefore, they are expected to possess certain qualities to perform their duty efficiently. Here we have explained those key attributes, making a security guard fit for the job. 

Whether they are hired for shopping mall security or apartment complex security, a security guard has a challenging role to play—to protect the people and property around him. Needless to say they are the first line of defense and is expected to respond quickly before the arrival of the police. This is why this profession requires responsible and mature personals. While these are the basic qualities every security guard must have, there are also other that make them suitable for this job. 

So before you hire a professional security guard in California, let’s have a look on the traits every security guard must own:

#1 They Should Be Physically Fit

An ill and overweight security guard can’t provide efficient security. They can’t run fast to catch a criminal or put a good fight when the circumstances require. Moreover, they may not be that alert to respond quickly to the situation. On the other hand, a security guard in good shape will have both physical and mental alertness.

You can also read: 9 Reasons You Must Hire Security Guards for Private Parties

#2 They Should Be Honest

Needless to say that a security guard should be honest and reliable to take care of millions of dollars’ worth of property, equipment and asset protection overnight. A dishonest security guard can steal what they are being paid to protect for, costing a client thousands of dollars in the process. Therefore, many security guard providers perform background check to ensure that they pick the right person for that job.

#3 They Should Have Keen Senses and Quick Reflexes

A security guard must be aware of the activities going on around him. Thier alertness can avoid the things that can be turned into potential danger. For example, an alert security guard can smell the burning of electrical wires or when there is a chemical leakage. They can detect strange sounds if anyone trying to break in. A security guard must know how to respond to these situations when there is a risk present. They must be able to put his skills into practice to protect and keep the area safe.

#4 They Should Follow Instructions

A right security guard is the one who obeys the orders of their security provider. If a provider orders a security guard to protect a certain place, then they should follow that instruction without questioning. Although a security guard should have their own judgment to assess any given situation they must also consider the client’s instructions and serve their needs.                 

#5 They Should Have Good Communication Skills

One of the attributes of a security guard is the ability to communicate well. Besides reporting the incident, communication skills are useful when it comes to handle a difficult situation. A security guard should know how to document each and every incident of importance without missing any information. Possessing good communication skills is also an important skill for a security guard while interacting with people or visitors. Also, if he is in patrolling duty, it is essential for him to know the essential ways for successful patrolling.

#6 They Should Be Flexible

Last but not the least; a security guard must be ready to perform all duties required by the client. For example, a security guard can be positioned at a gate to check visitors while the next day they can be assigned a job to handle the parking lot. Therefore, a security guard should have the ability of flexibility to perform various duties efficiently. 

These key qualities listed above allows your security guard to provide reliable and proactive security. Although there may be other attributes, a security guard can’t be fit for the job without these essential qualities. So, it better for you to contact best security guard service providers in California.