Enrolling in a security training program is essential if you want to become a certified security guard. A lot of people place a high priority on safety and security which is why the security industry is one of the most thriving in today’s world. There are various schools that offer security training courses, both online and offline.
Training is an important part of becoming a security guard. Whether you are interested in becoming an unarmed security guard or an armed one, most states require you to have training and certification before you can work as a guard. The common requirements for a security guard include being at least 18 years old, passing a thorough background check and completing a number of security courses and training. While educational requirements are not specific, it is usually necessary to have at least a high school diploma. If you have an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree, this can increase the number of career opportunities available to you. For security guards who wish to carry firearms, additional training is necessary. Security guards need to undergo 47 hours of a security course in handling firearms before becoming certified to carry firearms.
Security training courses usually involve 8-hour pre-assignment certificate training. You have to undergo eight hours of training is essential before you can get assigned to a post. Once you have been assigned your post, you have 90 days to complete 16 hours of on-the-job training (OJT). Usually, an additional 8-hour in-service training is required every year after you have received your OJT certification. Skill training for becoming a security guard involves courses in weapons of mass destruction & terrorism awareness, powers of arrest, public relations with both customers and the community as a whole, internal and external communication, proper observation and documentation and the legal aspects of being a security guard. Some training schools also offer elective courses which you can take to enhance your knowledge and skills and to get access to more career opportunities.
A security guard has the responsibility to observe, protect, patrol and report. A guard can be unarmed or armed. Assignments will either require constant patrolling of a certain area or just staying in one place to monitor people going in and out. Security guards are responsible for ensuring the safety of people when they are responsible for preventing criminal activities from occurring. They are also responsible for interviewing victims and witnesses and should know how to write case reports. Security guards are also often called to testify in court when criminal activities occur in their assigned areas
The salary of a security guard usually ranges from $25,000 to $35,000 yearly. This depends on the state you love and work in and on your qualifications. Armed security guards usually earn more compared to unarmed guards. Having an associate’s or bachelor’s degree will also lead to better pay and opportunities. Enrolling in security training courses will help ensure that you will do a good job as a security guard so make sure that you choose a good training school.
