If crime prevention for your business or event is at the top of your to-do list, you are not alone. Many businesses include security protection in their budgets to offset any potential financial losses due to theft. Security spending jumped an astonishing 233% in the first quarter of 2020. Why the growth? Businesses are spending more on preventative measures rather than the cost of pursuing and recovering from theft. Private Security companies, like Lofton Security Service, provide skilled Security Officers who are able to utilize their training to spot potential security threats.

PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICERS PROVIDE PREVENTION

Preventing security issues is one of the most important goals of Security Officers because they play a DEFENSIVE rather than OFFENSIVE role when it comes to securing properties. Private security officers have more authority on private property than the police. The duty of a private security officer is to represent the owner, whereas the police officer works for and represents the county (parish), city or state and not the property owner.

Unlike police officers, security officers' duties do not include offensive tactics, such as detaining assailants or apprehending criminals. Instead, Security Officers take preventative measures to deter crime, including trespassing and theft. Security Officers must be visible and observant to help prevent intrusion and crime from occurring. Additionally, their presence implements a regimen of checks and balances to ensure security.

PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICERS PROVIDE REPORTS (FEEDBACK)

Security Officers observe and report on the environment they are protecting. These reports may include any surveillance activity, occurrences, observations, witness statements and signatures, and interviews that took place during an incident. Security Officers can report to the company any risks spotted during a patrol.  Any risk, even a low one, can potentially present a problem. Leaks, cracks, unauthorized persons, water damage, malfunctioning machines, expired fire extinguishers and maintenance needs are just a few examples.

To enhance these measures, a guard tour system, like Lofton Security’s OfficerReports System, includes software that provides accurate data regarding security officers' whereabouts, which can be instrumental for reporting and observation purposes.

PRIVATE SECURITY OFFICERS’ COST IS MANAGEABLE

Not only do Security Officers help prevent theft from happening, but the cost is manageable for businesses.  Typically, security companies charge based on the hourly rate of the security officers assigned to a site or event. In the case of vehicle patrols, such as patrols for parking lots, housing communities, or construction sites there may be additional fees to account for fuel and business overhead. Rates vary based on whether the Security Officers are armed, how risky the particular job is, and what type of additional site specific training the Security Officer may need.  

Insurance is also an issue. Private security companies have certificates of insurance (COI) naming their clients as the certificate holders, which offer a layer of protection against civil or criminal suits. Will the city, county or state agency cover all liabilities for an off-duty officer working on a private property?

HIRING A PRIVATE SECURITY COMPANY

Hiring a Private Security company, like Lofton Security Service, is your first line of defense against intrusion and loss to property and assets. Verify that the company you're working with is compliant with state and regional licensing requirements and has sufficient liability insurance coverage. Each state has its own laws and regulations governing private security services. When hiring, you'll want to find a full-service company that offers security-related safety services, like Lofton Safety Services.

About Lofton: Founded in 1979, Lofton Services offers clients the best of all worlds. We provide the responsive, personal service and flexibility of a small local firm while having the technology, resources, and infrastructure to deliver the benefits of the biggest players in our industry. Lofton Staffing can deliver the right people, with the right skills, right when you need them. Contact us today.