Armed security guards protect various facilities and require extensive training. They face similar responsibilities and legal issues as police officers. Specialized work is available, including canine guards and personal bodyguards.
Armed security guards in the US are employed to protect secure casinos, banks, postal services, nuclear facilities, construction sites or government facilities. Security guards prevent vandalism and keep unwanted people out of protected areas. In some countries, existing gun laws may mean that only specialized guards or military personnel can carry weapons. Although many armed security guards take the job as a stepping stone to a law enforcement position, there are good career opportunities in administrative areas and specialized services.
Security work is physically demanding. The hours are long and the guards are on their feet most of the time. They might patrol areas regularly, checking with a specially designed time clock, or man a station where they monitor on closed-circuit television. Encounters with intoxicated invaders are sometimes dangerous. Armed security guards face the same gun responsibilities and legal issues as police officers.
Armed security guards generally have a higher salary scale and enjoy better benefits than their unarmed counterparts. They must complete a classroom course and have extensive firearms training. In many places, they must be licensed and carry additional documentation for their gun. Candidates for these positions need to be physically fit, adaptable individuals who are good with people and have good communication skills.
The US has many armed security guards, but in Europe they are rare. Guards in Israel almost always carry guns because of frequent terrorist acts. In developing countries or war-torn areas, most security is performed by current or former military personnel. The UK primarily restricts firearms to police or those protecting the monarchy and government officials. Private companies in many areas often employ active or retired police officers.
Specialized work is also available in this field. Canine guards can be used, as trained dogs are effective deterrents and can also capture and hold suspects by the police. Armed guards work at airports around the world. In the US, specially trained Armed Security Officers (ASOs) from the Transportation Security Administration protect Reagan National Airport. International companies provide customers with anti-piracy and maritime security for commercial and private vessels.
Some private companies offer personal bodyguards. Government officials or international business people facing threats from organized crime or terrorists use these services, as do celebrities. Professionals in this field will be highly proficient in threat assessment, kidnapping prevention, tactical training and may be armed where legal. Discretion is an essential quality in a bodyguard, who has access to many of a client’s private activities. Most training schools accept both male and female applicants.
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