Armed vs Unarmed Security: Find the Best Fit for Your Needs

Personal and professional safety is of the utmost importance in a varied and dynamic state like California. While armed security guards tend to be seen in more dangerous situations, unarmed security officers are just as crucial in many other contexts for keeping people safe and the peace. To safeguard their assets, workers, and clients, individuals and organizations might benefit from knowing when to engage unarmed security officers. An examination of the circumstances and causes that led to the use of unarmed security guards in Los Angeles, California is presented in this article.

Unarmed vs Armed Security Guards: What’s the Difference?

Armed Security Guards 

Pros: Since they are legally allowed to carry firearms, armed guards will have extra credentials, education, and licensure. This means they will provide a more robust security system to companies dealing with valuable assets, big crowds, big budgets, or operating in locations with a high crime rate. The ability to respond effectively to a more serious emergency, even one involving violence, is a major benefit of employing armed security guards in Los Angeles.

Cons: Some companies may view the presence of weapons and increased security as a disadvantage, even if these factors can have beneficial effects on other enterprises. You need to think about how the sight of a firearm may frighten your clients or staff. The added expense of armed guards puts them out of reach for many companies, particularly those with smaller budgets.

Unarmed Security Guards

Pros:  Since they do not carry weapons, company owners usually find that unarmed security guards are a more budget-friendly alternative. If physical force is necessary, these guards can do it using non-lethal weapons like batons. Whenever there are no weapons, armed guards can stop would-be criminals from ever trying to break in. Unarmed guards might be a good option for businesses with low to medium risk levels.

Cons: Since unarmed security guards are unable to carry a handgun, they are unable to protect properties with high crime rates adequately. A firm that deals with large quantities of money might not feel safe with an unarmed guard.

Cost To Hire 

Armed Guards: The most expensive kind of protection, employing an armed guard, may be rather pricey. Due to the higher hourly fee associated with armed guards, there are additional expenses related to licensing, training, and equipment maintenance. The price can also change based on factors such as the amount of danger your firm faces, where you are located, and your specific security requirements.

Unarmed Guards: For many company owners, hiring unarmed guards is going to be the more economical choice. Because they aren’t required to have any special licenses and don’t carry weapons, their services are usually less expensive. Unarmed guards are often the most cost-effective choice for security personnel.

Evaluating Your Unique Security Requirements

How anxious are you?

Think about how dangerous your company is before you hire a security guard. Theft could be a bigger problem for your company if you deal in high-priced goods like jewelry, electronics, cars, and the like.

The same holds for low-priced products; your company might not be particularly vulnerable in this case. Remember, though, that a reduced crime risk doesn’t imply your firm won’t become a target. Still, you need to do a risk assessment to figure out what kind of security is best for your company.

Which crimes are you preventing?

You should also consider the offenses that worry you the most. Certain crimes, such as trespassing, vandalism, solicitation, or stealing, can be adequately deterred by unarmed guards. In contrast, an armed guard is a far better choice when the goal is to prevent more severe crimes or when there is fear of violent assaults.

Think About Legal Obligation

The conduct of security guards employed by a business could put the owner in legal hot water. Because they will have heavy weapons, armed guards may pose a higher risk of injury. Potentially expensive lawsuits may arise if guards open fire, injuring or killing people.

Nobody knows your industry like you do. You are in the best position to assess the threats and requirements for your security. However, for those outside of the security profession, it can be difficult to determine whether a guard will be armed or unarmed.

Factors to Consider Before Hiring Security Guards

Environmental Factors

The setting is a major consideration; it will help you choose which one to recruit. An armed guard is necessary in high-risk areas where violent crime or the prospect of armed robbery is common. It is most commonly found in financial institutions and jewelry businesses.

The presence of a guard is sufficient in low-risk environments, such as residential communities or business headquarters. Without a weapon, guards must maintain vigilance, record who enters and leaves, and carry out other safety-related duties. These locations just require a security guard for the handling of small incidents, as indicated before. An unarmed guard is the best option if you need to staff a facility like this with security.

Recommended Security Level

Depending on the circumstances, different levels of security may be necessary to safeguard individuals and their possessions. Armed security guards in Los Angeles, for instance, can serve as an effective deterrent in situations where armed attacks are likely to occur. When keeping the peace and assisting customers or residents are the primary concerns, however, unarmed security guards may be sufficient to meet security demands. Ultimately, the right amount of protection should depend on the specifics.

Financial Restraints

Think about how much money you have while choosing between armed and unarmed security personnel. Companies pay extra for armed guards because of the increased responsibility and training required. Companies who are strapped for cash should prioritize their security measures according to their budget. Before making a final decision, weigh the pros and disadvantages of each choice thoroughly.

Response vs. Deterrence

Give some thought to your needs before you employ any kind of security guard, armed or unarmed. Find out if responding to events or preventing attacks is their primary goal. Even without guns, trained security guards can keep the peace and defuse volatile situations. In the event of a major security breach, however, armed guards can react swiftly and use force if necessary.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Businesses should think long and hard about the legal and ethical ramifications of employing armed security guards since the decision comes with substantial responsibility. It is the responsibility of the employer to make sure that the security guards employed by them adhere to all laws about the use of force and that they have completed the necessary training and certification.

The customer must also be aware of the dangers of employing armed security personnel and take precautions accordingly. Security Base Group nevertheless makes sure all procedures are satisfied, even with this necessity, so our customers don’t have to worry about danger. Their worries will be alleviated because our guards are well-qualified and have extensive training.

Following all applicable local regulations

Companies must prioritize compliance with all applicable local legislation and safety measures when it comes to the deployment of armed guards. Armed security officers are subject to more red tape than their unarmed counterparts.

When Should You Employ Unarmed Security Guards?

All public areas, residential areas, and enterprises must prioritize security. While armed security guards have their place in high-risk areas, unarmed guards may be just as effective—if not more so—in many other settings. Improving safety, maintaining order, and creating a welcoming atmosphere without the possible consequences of armed people may be achieved by knowing when to recruit unarmed security guards. Unarmed security personnel are the best option in these situations.

1. Shops and Commercial Centers

Security guards who do not carry weapons are a huge boon to retail establishments. Theft prevention, customer service, and controlling crowds at busy times are their main responsibilities. Retailers may deter theft and make customers feel protected by having a visible security officer on duty without resorting to the intimidating tactics often associated with armed guards. Their presence also aids in keeping sales events and emergencies under control by allowing for a more composed and collected approach.

2. Apartments and Residential Complexes

When it comes to residential situations, where the main objective is to ensure a safe and secure living environment, unarmed security guards are an excellent choice. In addition to responding to homeowners’ complaints, they can also patrol the property and keep an eye on the entrances. Instead of getting into fights, they should focus on providing a comforting presence that discourages criminal activity via being visible and vigilant. By bringing people together and encouraging trust, they make the neighborhood a better place to live.

3. Commercial Buildings and Corporate Offices

The job of unarmed security guards is vital in business settings for the protection of employees and visitors. As part of their tasks, they oversee access control, keep an eye on surveillance systems, and maintain an obvious presence of security. They are typically asked to greet guests, verify identification, and ensure that only authorized individuals are allowed entry to restricted areas. This method promotes a professional and friendly work climate while increasing security.

4. Schools and Colleges

To keep students, teachers, and staff safe, many educational institutions use unarmed security guards. Campus patrols, entrance point surveillance, and incident response are the primary responsibilities of these guards. Their presence aids in controlling unwanted visitors and resolving small disputes, making the school environment safer than one with armed guards. In times of crisis, they also administer first aid and help with evacuations.

5. Parties and events

Secure and well-managed crowds are essential for public gatherings like concerts, festivals, and sporting events. In these types of settings, unarmed security officers can effectively verify tickets, manage entrance and exit points, and maintain crowd control. The presence of armed guards helps keep the peace and ensures that everyone may enjoy the event without fear. They know how to manage huge gatherings and head off problems before they start.

6. Medical Centers

It is of the utmost importance to ensure the safety of everyone in healthcare settings, including patients, employees, and visitors. An armed security officer might be intimidating, but an unarmed guard can defuse tensions, control who can enter and exit the building, and keep everyone safe. They prioritize understanding and supporting patients and their families, which is essential in delicate settings when they may be experiencing emotional discomfort. The efficient running of the hospital is also helped by their assistance in enforcing regulations and procedures.

7. Hospitality Facilities

Providing a warm and safe space for customers is essential to the hospitality sector. Hotels, resorts, and other hospitality venues are best protected by unarmed security officers who may patrol the grounds, assist visitors, and respond to crises. Without the intimidating presence of armed guards, they help make guests feel protected and appreciated, elevating the whole experience. They are also responsible for keeping an eye on surveillance cameras and, if needed, working with the authorities in their area.

In Summary

Being secure means being ready for everything, even the worst-case scenario. Businesses consider hiring security guards not because they expect anything terrible to happen but because they want to be safe. Most companies still have reservations about selecting the best security guards, even though they are becoming an essential component of our communities and workplaces.

Security Base Group is your best choice whether you need armed or unarmed security personnel. They have been supplying security people to a wide range of sectors for decades, so you know you can trust them. Find the best armed and unarmed security guards in Los Angeles by consulting with us now.