Security officers Presence

Throughout our training we discuss maintaining high visibility, or creating a presence in assigned work areas. For security officers, maintaining a presence prevents many issues from arising. It's better not to have to deal with problem.

​So what are the best ways to creating a presence that will deter criminal activity, and other disruptive behaviors?

• Uniform - Security officers wear uniforms to stand apart from the crowd. Uniforms draw the attention of others which is the intent of having a uniformed presence on a property. 
• Patrols - Post orders include patrol instructions to maximize deterrent through patrols. Security officers roaming areas frequently known to have problems, or areas that are vulnerable to security risks, increases the presence of the officer. Supervisors, when completing post orders, utilize directed, random, or post position patrols depending on the needs of the specific property. 
• Communication/Community Relations - Security officers also communicate their presence to others. Casual conversations, talking with patrons or employees at the work site, is great way for security officers to increase their presence. Even though there may be casual conversation, make no mistake, these conversations are often intentional. Establishing rapport between the officers and those on the property increases communications about potential issues. 
• "Front & Center" - Many security managers will have security officers at the front and center of any property. Having officers being one of the first persons seen when someone enters the property is a great deterrent. Although it may require an additional staff position, having an officer front and center to be seen by all that enter a property is a great way to deter potential problems. 
• Security Officer vs. Security Camera - Property owners may opt for security cameras rather than employ/contract security officers. Surveillance cameras are common on properties, and even on private homes. As a result, the deterrent effect of cameras is often lacking as most are not monitored. Having a security officer, one who is vigilant, and responsive provides a greater deterrent. In general; security cameras are "inactive", while security officers are "active". It is better to opt for a mixed approach that utilizes both cameras to record activities and security officers that can provide active deterrents and response. 
• Prompt response - Unfortunately, even when every effort is made to deter incidents, they will still occur. Staffing security officers adequately ensures a prompt response which can greatly reduce the negative impacts of a situation by reducing the length, duration that the negative event continues. 

The presence of a uniformed security officer is a great deterrent. Having an active presence, and response when needed can greatly improve the safety and security of a property.