Your business is important to you and while you do what you can to protect it, crime is an unfortunate part of ownership. Whether it be stolen merchandise or belongings, vandalism, lewd behavior, or anything else, crime does occur, and it is necessary to protect employees and property. One of the best courses of action for protection is to hire trained security personnel.
Once you decide to hire security guards, the next decision is what type of security to hire.
There are two main types of security, undercover security guards and uniformed security guards, and each have a different function.
So, what exactly is the difference between undercover security guards and uniformed security guards and when would you use each? Undercover security guards are those that blend in with other patrons in the environment, and their main job is to keep watch and actively catch criminals in the act of committing a crime.
Uniformed security guards, on the other hand, are easily identifiable and act more as a deterrent to crime. We will discuss each guard type and their benefits in more detail below.
Undercover Security Guards
The purpose of undercover security guards is to investigate and catch crime as it is occurring by being inconspicuous. They wear normal, everyday clothes that blend in with the chosen environment, and they keep vigilant watch of their surroundings for any suspicious activity.
If guards are doing their job well, criminals will lower their defenses in the assumption that no one of authority is in the vicinity and will commit a crime. The undercover security will then reveal themselves and apprehend the criminal.
Undercover security is primarily used as anti-loss prevention. Many retail stores use undercover security to investigate and catch shoplifters in the act of stealing product. This is a highly effective way of saving product and ensuring shoplifters do not attempt to steal from that store again as they never know who will be watching.
Benefits of Undercover Security Guards
• Patrons are unaware security guards are present, so the atmosphere remains relaxed to promote a pleasant and leisurely experience.
• Criminals are caught and punished for their crime.
• Guards provide protection while also giving individuals their sense of freedom.
• Businesses maintain an image of being upscale, safe, and reliable.
Uniformed Security Guards
Unlike undercover guards, uniformed security guards are easily identifiable to everyone, and there are multiple ways that uniformed guards can dress to identify themselves. Mall security, some bank security, and similar industry uniforms appear similar to those of police officers with a button-down plain shirt, slacks, name tag, utility belt, and radio.
More opulent and sophisticated businesses will have security that dress in high quality suits and ties. An example of this type of security would be the Secret Service that guard the president. Another popular appearance for uniformed security includes those that work around bars and clubs. These individuals typically wear a solid-colored shirt that plainly states “Security” on the back.
The purpose of uniformed security guards is not to catch crime as it is occurring, but rather to deter crime from happening in the first place. Many criminals think twice before committing a crime if they notice a uniformed security guard in the vicinity for fear of getting caught. This type of security can also deter loitering if necessary.
Benefits of Uniformed Security Guards
• Guards create a tense environment that keeps criminals wary and reduces the chances of a crime occurring.
• Patrons feel secure and safe in guards’ presence.
• Guards provide a safe space to go if anyone feels unsafe or needs help.
• Criminals are deterred from committing crimes.
Conclusion
Both undercover and uniformed security guards are great ways to stop crime from occurring, but which is perfect for a specific job depends on the industry and the business. Businesses must first determine the strategy they would like to take when handling crime prior to determining which type of guard would fit their needs. This is not a decision to make lightly as it means the protection of your staff and your assets. Make sure to consider each option and weigh the pros of both against your business needs.
At Talon Security Service in Troy, our highly trained security officers are exceptionally trained, which provides them the confidence to deal with the most challenging and intimidating security circumstances with the utmost ability and decisiveness. All guards are trained for task and the duties at hand meeting the security needs of your business, event, or venue.
We offer affordable security guard services including uniformed, plainclothes, armed security, vehicle patrol, hotel security and so much more. Contact our professional team for a Free Quote and rest assured you, your employees, patrons and business will be in good hands!