Casinos, banks, courier services, nuclear facilities, construction sites, and secure government installations all employ armed security guards in the United States. Security guards keep unwanted people out of restricted areas and prevent vandalism. Existing weapons laws in some countries may limit the carrying of weapons to specialized or military guards. Despite the fact that many armed security guards use the job as a stepping stone to a career in law enforcement, there are good job opportunities in administrative and specialized services.
Physical exertion is a requirement of security work. The hours are long, and guards spend the majority of their time on their feet. They may patrol areas on a regular basis, checking in with a time clock designed specifically for them, or they may man a station that is monitored closed-circuit television. Encounters with inebriated trespassers can be dangerous. Armed security guards face the same responsibilities and legal issues as police officers when it comes to their weapons.
Armed security guards typically earn more money and have more benefits than their non-armed counterparts. They must successfully complete a classroom course as well as extensive firearms training. They must be licensed and carry additional documentation for their weapons in many places. Physically fit, adaptable individuals who are good with people and have good communication skills are required for these positions.
Armed security guards are common in the United States, but they are uncommon in Europe. Because of the frequent occurrences of terrorism in Israel, guards are almost always armed. The majority of security in developing countries or war-torn areas is provided current or former military personnel. In the United Kingdom, firearms are primarily restricted to police officers and those who protect the monarchy and government officials. Active or retired law enforcement personnel are frequently employed private companies in many areas.
In this field, specialty work is also available. Because trained dogs are effective deterrents and can also catch and hold suspects for the police, canine guards may be used. Armed security guards are stationed in airports all over the world. The Transportation Security Administration’s specially trained Armed Security Officers (ASOs) protect the Reagan National Airport in the United States. For both commercial and private vessels, international firms provide maritime and anti-piracy security.
Personal bodyguards are available from some private companies. These services are used government officials, international businesspeople, and celebrities who are threatened organized crime or terrorists. Threat assessment, kidnap prevention, tactical training, and the ability to be armed where legal are all skills that professionals in this field will have. A bodyguard’s discretion is essential because he or she is privy to many of a client’s private activities. Male and female applicants are accepted the majority of training schools.