What Characteristics Do You Need to Become an Armed Guard?

Armed guards are usually required to complete a background check and fingerprinting, as well as show proof of citizenship or residency in the United States. While requirements differ from state to state, security guard companies usually seek prospective guards that are healthy, honest, alert, smart, and stable, increasing the chances of preventing crime on their clients’ property. If you’re interested in learning more about what types of characteristics are needed to become an armed guard, our team of trained and experienced security experts at Professional Guard & Patrol in Houston, Texas invites you to read the following list of qualities possessed by our guards.

Five characteristics needed to be an armed guard

1. Healthy

First and foremost, armed guards should be physically fit. In the event of an issue, the armed guard should be able to respond quickly and effectively to prevent a problem from occurring. Guards should not only be physically strong, but fast and agile, as well. While guards usually do not need to exert force, it’s important to be able to chase or possibly restrain someone if a situation arises.

2. Honest

Armed guards should also be honest—a trustworthy person with good character will allow both the private security company, the client, and everyone on the property to be able to trust and respect them as a guard. Since armed guards could have access to certain parts of the property unavailable to others, they should be reliable and capable of telling the truth and keeping the safety of the property and client in mind at all times.

3. Alert

When armed guards are alert, they can act quickly in the event of a problem. It is crucial for an armed guard to not only be physically fit but able to make quick decisions and make observations over the course of their shift.

4. Smart

Armed guards should also be smart. They should have the training and experience to protect themselves, the property, and their clients if anything occurs.

5. Stable

Last but not least, armed guards should show signs of stability—showing up to work on time, capable of spending long shifts alone, and working through problems rationally and logically. Armed guards with indications that they are emotionally and mentally stable will ensure that they are capable of handling a problem if something occurs.

Hire an armed guard today

Now that you have a better understanding of what it takes to be an armed guard, contact us about your security needs.