Security Guard Equipment

If you’re serious about becoming a security guard, you’re going to want to invest in gear that will make you confident and comfortable. Though many security agencies require and will provide you with a uniform, even a simple polo shirt emblazoned with a logo, you’re generally asked to provide the rest. What’s the rest? Glad you asked. Some items are essential, dozens are helpful. Let’s take a look:

Boots/Shoes
No one can do a job successfully with feet that ache, particularly if you stand on them for hours at a time. Many security guard positions require long stretches patrolling on your feet, so you want to make sure you invest in sturdy, supportive shoes that are comfortable on the job and prevent back aches at the end of the day. It’s vital to your success as a security guard that you maintain alertness for the duration of your shift. A good pair of boots or shoes will combat drowsiness – as they lift your spirits by literally lifting your step. The appearance of solid, sturdy footwear also helps to demonstrate a certain amount of authority, and a strong pair of black boots – often required by security companies – can aid in defense. There is no downside to the investment you’ll make as a security guard in quality boots or shoes.

Flashlight

Whether you’ll work the nightshift or during the day, a flashlight always comes in handy. Even if it’s lunchtime, you may be required to investigate something indoors where there isn’t adequate light. Tight spots, dark corners, underneath a car – you’re going to need a flashlight. Any self-respecting security guard carries one, as an illumination device as well as a weapon. There’s no need to explain how a flashlight to the head or body can assist in subduing someone intent on inflicting harm or carrying out a robbery. Like shoes, the more you invest in a top-of-the-line flashlight, with long distance coverage and a powerful beam, the better off you’ll be as a security guard.

Cellphone (and/or walkie-talkie)

Depending on the type of security guard post you’ve been assigned, you’re going to want to be able to communicate as easily as possible beyond walkie-talkie range – whether it’s to contact the fire department, call an ambulance, or alert others. A cell phone will allow for this. In addition to 911, you’ll want to have the numbers of important contacts readily available, so it’s best to program these telephone numbers into your cell phone before you start the job. Also, bring your cell phone charger to work with you, just in case. The security company you work for will likely pick up a portion of your monthly bill, if not provide you with the cell phone altogether.

Pepper spray

Many states require that you take a course in the proper use of pepper spray when confronting an individual, and it’s time well spent. Pepper spray is one of the least hurtful and most effective ways to inhibit and suppress an attacker, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. Pepper spray temporarily ‘blinds’ a person, causing them to feel extreme heat on their eyes and face, allowing a security guard to further subdue the person and receive additional help. It’s a vital tool among many that helps a security guard do their job well.

Security guard baton

Most states require training in the handling and use of a security guard baton before a permit is issued to carry one, and like pepper spray, it’s not as dangerous as a loaded weapon – to the security guard or to the person attempting an unlawful act. It can cause serious bodily injury, but it also can protect the security guard and help prevent a crime from being committed simply by its appearance. A baton at a security guard’s side is a deterrent and as such is important, and often essential, gear.

Notepad and pen

There are plenty of instances when a security guard will have to record information, and often in a split second. A security guard doing their job well doesn’t want to fumble around for pen and paper, or ask someone nearby. They should carry it on their body, ready for use, whether it’s writing down the license plate number of a car speeding away, or taking down notes at a crime scene, i.e. eyewitness accounts.

Digital camera

Like the notepad and pen, the digital camera is extremely useful in recording information, whether it’s a photo of a crime scene, a short video of an altercation, or an account of suspicious activity. A camera can also be used to take a picture of a license plate and record the information faster than pen and paper. It’s solid evidence and can be used all the way into the courtroom should you, as the security guard, be asked to testify in a legal proceeding. Make sure the battery is charged!

Security guard belt

So you’ve got a flashlight, a cell phone, pepper spray, notepad and pen, a digital camera, maybe a baton. You can’t put it all in your pockets. It won’t fit and it will look awful. A security guard belt is absolutely necessary if you’re going to carry most of the important equipment required to become a successful, professional security guard. And there’s an order to it all. You might choose to put your flashlight next to your pepper spray, followed by notepad and pen, then digital camera, next to your baton. Perhaps you’ve found that a Swiss army knife comes in handy when you least expect it. You’ll generally find plenty of space on a good security guard belt and plenty of opportunity to add more clips to secure additional pieces of gear. Almost as much as a good pair of shoes, this piece of equipment will make your job much more comfortable.

After deciding what’s necessary for your specific post as a security guard, you might choose to add a first aid kit to your list, as well as a stun gun, foul weather gear, a heated vest for cold weather, a bulletproof vest, a handgun (with the proper training and licensing), handcuffs, binoculars, and a bag of Nacho Cheese Doritos (in case you get hungry!) Depending on the job, what it is you’ve been hired to protect, and the security situations you’re likely to encounter, you’ll want to invest in the tools of the trade that help you do your job to the best of your ability.