How to Prepare for Your First Time Working as a Security Guard

Working as an armed or unarmed security guard is a noble decision, which prioritizes the safety of others over oneself. This is exactly why security guards are well-trained and provided with several important tools to empower them to perform well on the job. The nature of this profession is, however, highly unpredictable, which can be daunting when you are just getting started in the field.

As a well-recognized private security company in Houston, TX, Professional Guard & Patrol Inc. is your top resource for security information. Our team has put together a list of ways to prepare yourself for your first day as a security guard.

Preparation Tips for First-Time Unarmed & Armed Guards

Familiarize yourself with the area

No matter how long you’ve been working as a security guard, understanding your post is an important first step when you arrive on a premises. Even if you are not on patrol, complete a thorough scan of the property before you start so that you know where all potential entry points are, emergency exit routes, and areas that are most susceptible to criminal activity. The more knowledge you have about your surroundings, the more peace of mind you can enjoy on the job.

Make sure you have everything you need

Security guards should have access to various equipment such as a flashlight, handcuffs, and a loaded firearm in the case of an armed guard. Before your shift, we recommend checking to make sure all important tools are on your person, and in good condition so that you feel ready to respond to emergencies.

Avoid working in patterns

Before most premeditated crimes, wrongdoers will look for security systems and take note of how security guards move around the premises. What many security guards are not taught in training, is that they should continuously change their movement so that criminals are not able to plan around a repeated pattern. This is an excellent way to deter crime and catch moments of misconduct. Planning various walking routes around the property is therefore a great way to keep yourself one step ahead.

Work with other guards on site

If you are assigned a post where there is more than one security guard on-site, this is a great opportunity to ask questions about the property and its past security threats. Security guards should also work together to plan emergency protocols.

We Have the Armed Guards You Need

Learn more about our unarmed and armed security guards at PGP Security by contacting us today!