Four Different Types of Security Guards: What You Need to Know

A security guard helps deter crime, enforce rules and policies, and protect people, property, goods and services. But did you know there are many different types of security guards? Although most security guards do essentially the same thing—guard and protect—these men and women can have very different roles. So whether you are looking into a career as a security guard or looking to hire security guard services for your property, here are the different types of security guard positions you should know about:

• Residential: A residential security guard is responsible for protecting housing properties. Housing properties would include apartment complexes, assisted living communities, gated communities and even dorms or student housing. Residential security guards are charged with not only protecting the property from theft or vandalism, but also protecting the residents living there.
• Commercial: Private business properties usually require some type of security as well, which is where you will see our commercial security guards. These security guards are charged with safeguarding commercial properties, but they may also be responsible for monitoring restricted areas, checking personnel in and out, protecting confidential business information and trade secrets, and much more. From a small medical practice to a 10-story office building, commercial security guards are hard at work keeping your business, your assets, and your employees safe.
• Retail: Similar to a commercial security guard, a retail security guard works for private businesses. However, where a commercial security guard may have a wide range of responsibilities, a retail security guard has one main job—to prevent theft. For many retail businesses, shoplifting is a serious problem that can significantly cut into their assets. A retail security guard helps prevent theft, not only by having a trained eye to spot shoplifters, but also by being a warning presence discouraging potential shoplifters from attempting to steal in the first place.
• Armed: Most security guards do not carry a weapon; however, under certain circumstances, armed security may be a necessity. In cases where an individual’s life may be in danger, potentially volatile circumstances or for a business located in a high-crime area, having armed security on hand may be the only way to ensure protection and that a safe environment is maintained. Keep in mind that armed security guards are licensed and highly trained, not only on how to use their weapon, but how to control dangerous situations and prevent circumstances that would require the use of a weapon in the first place.

Whether you are looking to work as a security guard or are trying to find the perfect security guard services for your home or business, it’s important that you understand the many different types of security positions we offer here at American Pride Security Services. To learn more about what we offer or to schedule a security survey to see what type of security professional will best suit your needs, call us today. Our team looks forward to working with you!

Categorised in: Security Guard Services

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