Security patrolling is a crucial aspect of maintaining safety and security on various premises. It involves a range of activities designed to protect property, ensure the safety of people, and prevent loss or damage.
Here, we’ll explore the primary purposes of security patrolling and the essential tasks that security guards perform during their patrols.
Key Takeaways
- Security patrolling deters intruders, assists the public, and ensures the operational safety of equipment.
- Guards perform multiple tasks like monitoring, inspecting, and rapid emergency responses.
- Effective patrolling requires preparation, knowledge of the premises, and adaptability to various situations.
Why Security Patrolling is Important
The main goal of security patrolling is to ensure the security and safety of the premises under the guard’s responsibility.
This involves various tasks, depending on the specific needs of the site. Here are some common objectives of security patrolling:
- Deterring Intruders: Security guards patrol to prevent unauthorized access to the property. Their presence acts as a deterrent to potential intruders or trespassers.
- Helping the People: Guards often help individuals who appear confused or need assistance. This can include giving directions or providing help during emergencies.
- Checking Equipment: Part of a patrol involves inspecting equipment such as boilers and other machinery to ensure they are functioning safely.
- Protecting Property: Security patrols help prevent theft, vandalism, and other forms of property damage.
- Emergency Response: Guards are trained to identify potential fire hazards and other emergencies, providing warnings and taking action to mitigate risks.
- Maintaining Order: During their patrols, guards may need to stop public security incidents such as fights and ensure smooth business operations.
The purpose of a patrol can vary even within a single shift. For example, a guard might first check for intruders, then inspect machinery safety, and later return to recheck security breaches.
This flexibility is crucial for effective patrolling.
Key Tasks During Security Patrolling
Security guards perform several essential tasks while patrolling. These tasks help ensure comprehensive coverage and effective security measures.
- Patrol, Inspect, and Monitor
- Guards patrol the property to monitor surveillance equipment, inspect buildings, equipment, and access points.
- They decide whether to permit or refuse entry based on the situation.
- Rapid response to alarms is vital for achieving the desired security outcomes.
- Prevent Losses and Report
- Guards prevent loss and damage by reporting nonconformities and informing violators of policies and procedures.
- They take action to restrain trespassers if necessary, ensuring the safety and security of the premises.
- Detain Offenders
- Security guards have the authority to issue warnings, citations, or detain individuals who commit offenses.
- They must document the circumstances accurately in their reports.
- Maintain Equipment
- Guards ensure all equipment is operational by performing preventive maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and calling for repairs when needed.
- Anticipate and Prevent
- Proactive patrolling involves preventative inspections and measures to prevent burglary, damage, and other misconduct.
- Guards do not wait for incidents to occur; they take steps to prevent them.
Preparing for Effective Patrolling
To patrol effectively, security guards must be well-prepared. This preparation involves understanding the geography of the area and knowing the locations of essential facilities and equipment.
- Knowledge of the Area: Guards should be familiar with the layout of the premises, including the locations of telephones, water shut-off valves, electrical and alarm panels, and emergency lighting. They should also know where emergency equipment like backup generators, first aid kits, fire alarms, hydrants, and extinguishers are located.
- Route Planning: Before starting a patrol, guards should plan their route, including major checkpoints, passageways, rooms, stairwells, doors, and windows. They should also have alternate routes in case certain areas become inaccessible due to emergencies like fires, explosions, or chemical leaks.
- Varying Patrols: To avoid predictability, the timing and route of the patrol should be varied. Routine patrols can become too predictable, making it easier for potential intruders to plan their actions.
- Proper Equipment: Guards should ensure they have the necessary patrol equipment, including appropriate clothing for various weather conditions and tools required for specific tasks.
Adapting to Different Situations
Each premises has unique requirements, and situations can change rapidly.
Security guards must be adaptable and ready to perform the necessary activities to maintain safety and security. This includes:
- Responding to alarms and incidents promptly.
- Communicating effectively with other security personnel and relevant authorities.
- Staying vigilant and observant to identify potential threats or issues quickly.
Conclusion
Security patrolling is a vital component of maintaining a safe and secure environment.
By performing regular patrols, inspecting equipment, and responding to emergencies, security guards play a crucial role in protecting property and ensuring the safety of individuals.
Effective patrolling requires thorough preparation, knowledge of the area, and the ability to adapt to changing situations. With these skills, security guards can provide comprehensive security coverage and peace of mind for all those on the premises.
If you are looking to hire security patrols, look no further than Walton Security. With over 7 years of experience, we know how to keep your business safe. Apart from mobile patrols, we offer a plethora of security services in Melbourne.
Hire Walton Security guards for your security needs today.
You can reach us | By Phone | 03 9028 8098
Website | www.waltonsecurity.com.au and you can chat to us from here
Email | info@waltonsecurity.com.au
