Myth #1 – Security guards are not trained
DEBUNKED: Whether it’s armed or unarmed guards, loss prevention specialists, foot patrols, concierge service, or all of the above, these professionals need to pass a background check and complete training once hired. Many security guards also have a military and/or law enforcement background and bring years of knowledge and field experience to their roles.
Myth #2 – Security guards are lazy
DEBUNKED: The media typically portrays security guards as unwitting and aloof. Potential danger often easily sneaks right by them as they watch TV in their booth or sleep. This couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Security guards are often the first line of defense during an emergency before law enforcement arrives at the scene. They are required to secure perimeters, identify weak spots and ensure access control so that a business or facility does not become a conduit of criminal activity.
Myth #3 – Security is expensive
DEBUNKED: Business owners and managers may think that security teams are only for large, Fortune 500 companies; or celebrities, politicians and wealthy individuals that require constant security detail. But working with a professional security team does not mean you need to break the bank.
Security guards and video surveillance can offer business owners peace of mind that their personnel and property are protected, and can be achieved even with a small budget. Foot patrols, unarmed guards and remote monitoring are all cheaper alternatives to more intense forms of security like armed guards and X. Plus, it just takes one instance for a security team’s value to become clear.
Consider: In 2020, nearly 9 million criminal offenses were reported to the FBI’s National Incident-Based Reporting System, 60.5% of which were crimes against property (i.e. burglary, theft, arson, vandalism, and shoplifting). A security presence, whether on-site or via video surveillance, has been shown to deter crime and make offenders think twice before attacking a business, saving business owners money and heartache.
Myth #4 – Security is a “man’s job”
DEBUNKED: The typical image of a security guard is a big, burly man standing at the front door of a bar or nightclub, making sure people don’t enter by sheer force alone. However, security is not just a “man’s job.” In fact, women make up more than 30% of all security guards in the United States, and that number continues to grow.
At DMAC Security, for example, our security force is made up of many incredible women and men with diverse backgrounds in law enforcement, military service, and more.
Myth #5 – Video surveillance doesn’t work
DEBUNKED: While having a physical safety presence on a premises can help deter crime, one or even a few guards cannot be everywhere at once. By leveraging video surveillance as well, officers can access better coverage of an area without putting anyone in danger. And surveillance is also often 24/7, prompting on-site security teams at any time of day to take proper action in real time. Moreover, offsite monitoring has gotten faster, more affordable and more reliable in recent years.