Well, the answer depends on your own specific needs as an organization. While unarmed guards tend to be sufficient in most cases, your company’s circumstances play a large part in the choice you make. Additionally, you should also consider the inherent differences between using armed and unarmed forces. Let’s have a look at the factors that should influence your decision regarding security guard services.
How much risk of attack do you face?
Certain businesses are always at increased risk of attack due to the very nature of the industries they belong to, or because their assets tend to be expensive. Likewise, events that are political or religious in nature, for example, or highly publicized, also have to deal with increased risks that could potentially require the utilization of intimidating force. If your business or event is associated with a high risk of attack, you should probably consider getting an armed private security guard.
Where will the guards be?
Consider both the audience as well as the setting. Keep in mind that unarmed private security will always be relatively less threatening than armed guards. This means that the former’s services are best used in public places with a lot of civilians around. So if you’re getting private security for museums, shopping malls, parks, colleges, or any places where many people congregate together, it’s best to have unarmed guards. After all, it would be devastating if an armed guard were to open fire in public in a large crowd.
Unarmed security guards will still be wearing uniforms, so they’ll be distinguishable, and will also have the advantage of extensive training so they can remain vigilant against any criminal activity.
Armed security guards, on the other hand, will be more appropriate for private businesses and settings, where the protection of valuable items that could be targeted is imperative.
What are your costs?
Since armed security requires more intensive training, it is also more expensive than unarmed. If cost is a concern, unarmed guards can give you the security you need.
Need armed or unarmed private security in Atlanta? Get in touch with PSI Security Service for your security needs.