How To Choose Between Armed Vs Unarmed Security Guards

The first and most important step in determining whether armed or unarmed guards would be better for your security needs, is understanding the threat level you or your business is exposed to.  While a violent incident can happen at any time, determine the likelihood of such an incident happening at your location.  If there is a high likelihood of such an incident occurring, the advantages and disadvantages should be carefully considered.   

Advantages and Disadvantages of Armed Security Guards 

Advantages: 

• Deterrence – There is extensive research demonstrating criminals consider ease of effort, risk level and perceived opportunity.  Opportunistic criminals are less likely to target your property if you have visible armed security guards on site.  

• Protection – The added layer of protection that is provided by an armed security guard is usually the first thing that comes to mind when discussing advantages. The undeniable benefit of a well trained armed security guard is that they are better equipped to deal with serious threats. 

Disadvantages: 

• Accidental injury or death – Security officers are only humans and even well-trained individuals can still have accidents. When an officer is armed, they’re entrusted with the right to use deadly force if they deem it necessary. That’s an emotional weight that not everyone can carry. A security guard that is not emotionally equipped to deal with the pressure of wielding a firearm could end up shooting and injuring or killing someone that should not be shot at. 

• Cost – As one would expect, it usually costs more to hire armed vs unarmed security guards. Armed security guards are usually people with military or law enforcement backgrounds, and that adds to the cost of hiring their services. This is an upfront cost that you can’t avoid, whilst still having to consider additional costs. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Unarmed Security Guards 

• Reduced Risk – Property owners may be held liable if an armed guard shoots someone and causes injury or death.  Additionally, the property owners face reputational risk regardless of whether the shooting was justified.  Unarmed security guards can use non-lethal weapons such as batons, tasers and sprays to deter potential criminals.  

Disadvantages: 

• Limited Deterrence – While the presence of an unarmed guard is mostly effective to reduce opportunistic or non-violent incidents, they may not be equipped to deter a determined criminal.

• Limited Protection –  With unarmed guards, you’re limited on the level of security you can reasonably expect. Unarmed guards might be adequate 99 percent of the time, but if that 1% scenario plays out, they may not be able to defend themselves or others.  

Summing Up

Deploying any kind of physical security measures does not guarantee the threat or risk will be completely eliminated.  Security guards are usually only a part of an effective security plan, regardless of whether they are armed or not.  Before deciding on whether you should hire an armed or unarmed security guard, you should weigh up the pros and cons of either type of officer and which would be more beneficial to your unique situation. Unarmed guards are beneficial for reducing specific crimes like theft, trespassing and vandalism. However, an armed guard would suit your concerns much better if you are looking to deter more serious crimes such as violent attacks. Contact Pro Security Group to work hand in hand with a security professional who will explain the different types of services each security guard provides and create a security plan tailored to your specific needs.