One important decision is whether to hire armed or unarmed security guards.
When you’re evaluating security options for your business, one important decision is whether to hire armed or unarmed security guards. Each option has its own advantages, and the right choice depends on your unique needs, risks, or priorities. While there isn’t a “right” choice, multiple key factors might dictate your final decision. Like your business location, budget, industry, and the amount of risk you are managing. These considerations could make it difficult to pick, especially when balancing safety, costs, and customer comfort. Read on to learn more about armed and unarmed security guards and why you should consider hiring unarmed security guards on your property!
Reduced Costs with Unarmed Security Guards
Unarmed security guards have lower associated costs while also providing essential services. Unlike their armed counterparts, they do not have to undergo extensive firearm safety training. They also do not require additional insurance and require much fewer equipment expenses. These additional requirements make armed security guards less accessible and sometimes in short supply. In contrast, unarmed security guards are a lot more readily available.
Making Customers More Comfortable
In specific settings, like libraries, schools, and recreational facilities, the sights of firearms could evoke unease and anxiety. Unarmed security officers have a non-threatening presence that will make customers, employees, and other people on the property more comfortable. Picking unarmed security guards allows your business to maintain a safe environment without introducing unnecessary tension. An unarmed security officer creates an atmosphere of professionalism and safety that reassures customers and fosters trust. At the same time, business owners could rest easy knowing the premises are protected from possible risk, all without worries that might accompany armed security.
Lower Chance of Escalation
Although firearms could effectively deter criminals and stop any violent incidents, their usage could amplify tensions in specific situations and result in more violence and loss of life for the guard, perpetrator, and other bystanders. For example, a few criminals, even when armed, might not intend to cause harm and instead use firearms to scare and assert control. However, the presence of armed security guards could escalate these situations, potentially scaring criminals to use weapons out of fear or panic and increasing the risk of any causalities. As unarmed security guards are specially trained with communication and de-escalation techniques without the need of firearms, they could effectively defuse a very intense situation, and when necessary, use non-lethal methods like verbal persuasion, physical intervention, and techniques for restraint.
FOR ALL YOUR SECURITY GUARDS AND PROTECTION SERVICES, CONTACT ICS SECURITY SERVICES TODAY
ICS Security Services is a trusted and reliable security company dedicated to protecting you and your business. Our fully trained staff serves Maryland all throughout Baltimore, Catonsville, Columbia, Bethesda, White Marsh, Gaithersburg, Annapolis, Towson, and Hunt Valley. We are here to provide you with the best services and products when you need them. For a bit more information on how we can assist you, visit our website or give a call at 410-719-8796.