Security should be top of your priority list as a business owner. If you run an organized establishment, you want to ensure that business operations run smoothly without violent disruption.
Sometimes, arms may be necessary. At other times, it may not be. Depending on what your company needs, you'll have to choose between armed and unarmed security. Before we get down to the factors that determine your choice, let's examine some differences between unarmed and armed security guards.
Armed vs. Unarmed Security
Quite naturally, the primary difference is in the use of firearms. In some cases, where there is very little possibility of serious conflict, arms will not be required. At the very least, a small baton or taser will suffice. Unarmed guards are usually in various areas or establishments such as:
Schools
Events
Homes
Commercial buildings
Unarmed security guards rely more on their sense of watchfulness and anticipation, sniffing out and quelling trouble before it escalates. With them, the securing effect is just as much in their professional demeanor as it is in their actual training.
On the other hand, armed guards generally have more intense training to prepare them for maximum response to extremely violent situations. As such, you'll find them in high-traffic, specialized areas like:
Airports
Museums
Government facilities
Banks
They're deployed to VIP persons, institutions or for the security of valuable facilities, equipment and items. The most notable element of their specialty is their use of arms, which is a strong deterrent to potential thieves or vandals.
There are two main things to consider when choosing between armed and unarmed security guards. Let's examine these factors:
Threat risk
This is the first aspect to consider. If you run a highly valuable enterprise with costly assets and valuable merchandise, you need armed security. Other instances requiring armed security include:
Large, highly publicize events
Businesses that transact large sums of cash
Delivery or transportation of valuable assets
Situation of enterprises high-crime areas
On the other hand, you may stick to professional unarmed security if you run a low risk business. Other apt instances or scenarios include:
Security in schools
Traffic control requirements
Security in religious places
Security in recreational centers like pools and parks
Affordability
After assessing your risk levels, the next thing to consider when choosing one of an unarmed or armed security options is the cost involved.
With armed security, the cost is significantly higher. The weapons they use are expensive. Additionally, they're literally putting their lives at risk. Coupled with their intense combat training, you'd be spending a lot to hire armed security guards.
On the other hand, unarmed security is relatively cheaper. As there's no direct risk to life, and don't have as much specialized, expensive training as their armed counterparts, they're often the best choice for small business owners.
Choosing the best option
Both armed and unarmed security guards have a lot to offer. However, you might be inclined to choose one over the other if you have specialized needs.
Sundown Security provides security consultation services to help you decide on the apt security approach for you. Contact us today.