If you're looking for a rewarding job that comes with some degree of authority, then becoming a security guard could be the right career path for you. Security guards are often employed by retail stores, apartment complexes, and large venues as a means of protecting assets and keeping the peace. However, you shouldn't expect to become a security guard without proper training. Depending on the company with which you interview, there's a good chance you'll be sent through a training course before you're officially hired. During your training, you'll likely learn about how to communicate with other guards, how to write reports, and how to stay within the confines of Canadian law.
Communications
As a security guard, you'll find that being able to communicate with other guards is key to your success. Different security companies may have different communication systems in place, but most will use a radio system that allows you to speak with other guards on the same radio channel as you. Depending on the size of the venue or property where you're working, there may be several radio channels in use for different areas of the guarded property.
As part of your training, you'll learn not only how to use the communication system, but also which radio codes should be used for certain situations.
Documentation and Reporting
In addition to being able to communicate with other guards, you'll also need to know how to properly interact with citizens and document these interactions. For example, in the event that you suspect a person has committed a shoplifting crime on a property you protect, you'll need to know which specific questions you should ask the suspect. Furthermore, being able to write a formal report that can be turned over to the police in the event that an arrest is made will come in handy and is something you'll be trained on as well.
Legal Rights and Responsibilities
Finally (and perhaps most importantly), you'll need to understand your rights, responsibilities, and restrictions as a security guard. Since you won't have full police powers, you'll need to recognize situations where you can make a legal citizen's arrest versus when you might be overstepping your authority. By being aware of your legal rights and the average citizen's legal rights, you can make better decisions while on duty and avoid some potentially sticky situations (such as getting your security company sued for illegal use of force) down the road.
For more information, contact a business such as Royal Victoria Security.
Share5 February 2015
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