Security guards act as key frontline defenders and critical components of effective crisis management during times of crisis. They play an essential role in emergencies when safety and security are paramount. Security guards, with their expertise, training, and presence, can ensure the safety of those involved and the protection of assets during emergencies. Security guards can utilize three stages to approach any crisis, such as fire, power outage, natural disaster, and more. In this article, we will explain the role of security guards during an emergency or crisis and how they will manage it.
Three Stage Approached for Security Guards to Manage Crisis
Stage 1
Prevention and Preparedness
- Risk Assessment
Security guards are trained to assess risk factors for any place and situation. They conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and develop plans to mitigate them. One of the most effective ways to handle a crisis is to avoid one; risk evaluation can help with that.
- Access Control and Surveillance
They monitor access points, verify identities, and enforce security protocols to prevent unauthorized entry. This will help maintain a secure environment on the premises. Security guards can also monitor systems through CCTV cameras to keep a lookout. They can patrol to detect and deter suspicious activities, preventing potential crises from escalating.
- Emergency Planning
Companies can prepare an emergency plan for any crisis with the help of security personnel. They can help develop and implement emergency response plans. It will ensure evacuation routes, emergency exits, and assembly points are well-defined and communicated to relevant parties.
Stage 2
Emergency Response
- Immediate Action
Security guards often serve as the first responders on the scene when a crisis occurs. They are trained to handle any emergency, but most importantly, they can help others during the crisis. They can activate emergency procedures, such as notifying the proper officials, coordinating with emergency services, and offering immediate assistance to people in need.
- Evacuation and Crowd Control
In the event of an emergency, people tend to panic and forget the basic emergency protocols. That’s why security guards are trained to help with the evacuation. They can guide people to safety and make sure that panic is minimized. Security guards also need crowd control to maintain order and prevent overcrowded places to speed up evacuation.
- First Aid and Medical Assistance
Security guards can also help with basic first aid or perform CPR. They are not trained to help with more severe medical issues but can provide initial medical support. This can help the patients to gain some valuable extra minutes before the professional help arrives.
- Communication and Coordination
Most of the time, a lack of communication can cause more damage than an actual crisis. Security guards can act as a liaison between emergency services and people who are affected by the emergency. They can also stay connected with management to provide updates on the situation. They can coordinate important information and instruction for better response.
Stage 3
Post-Incident Activities
- Security Measures
Apart from providing relief activities to those affected by the emergency, security guards must report the incident. They can document every detail and what role they play during an emergency. This will help management create a better and more effective emergency measure for the future. It can help them decide on increasing patrols, putting in more CCTV cameras, and planning to prevent the next emergency.
Conclusion
Security guards are the first line of defense in an emergency, responding quickly and decisively. Their training prepares them to start emergency procedures, notify authorities, and work with emergency services. In high-pressure situations, their calm and measured behavior helps to limit injury and guarantee a coordinated response, ultimately saving lives and reducing damage. This article provides a three-stage approach for security guards in any emergency. At Citiguard, we regularly prepare and train our security guards to handle any situation or crisis. Contact us today to get security guard services that are suited to your requirements.