Security guards are individuals hired to protect people, property, and assets from potential threats, such as theft, vandalism, or violence. They are responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment in a variety of settings, including commercial buildings, residential complexes, public events, and more.
The types of security guards
There are 2 types of security guards: unarmed security guard and armed security guard.
Unarmed Security Guard
An unarmed security guard is a type of security guard who does not carry a firearm as part of their duties. Unarmed security guards are responsible for maintaining the safety and security of people and property by observing, reporting, and deterring criminal activity.
Unarmed security guards are typically employed in a wide range of settings, such as retail stores, office buildings, hospitals, and residential complexes. They may be responsible for controlling access to certain areas, conducting patrols, monitoring surveillance systems, and responding to emergency situations.
While unarmed security guards do not carry firearms, they may be authorized to use non-lethal force, such as pepper spray or a baton, in certain situations. Unarmed security guards are expected to act with professionalism and restraint in all situations, and to use good judgment when responding to potential security threats.
Armed Security Guard
An armed security guard is a type of security guard who carries a firearm as part of their duties. Armed security guards are responsible for protecting people and property from potential threats, and their primary duty is to deter or respond to criminal activity.
Armed security guards are typically employed in high-risk environments, such as banks, jewelry stores, government buildings, and other high-value targets. They may also be hired to protect individuals, such as celebrities or high-ranking government officials.
Armed security guards are held to a high standard of professionalism and are expected to act with restraint and good judgment in all situations. They are authorized to use force, including deadly force, only in specific situations, such as in self-defense or when protecting others from imminent harm.
Security Guard Requirements in Illinois
In Illinois, security guards are required to meet certain requirements in order to be licensed and legally allowed to work as a security guard. Here are some of the basic requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Criminal Record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record, meaning they cannot have any felony convictions or convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude.
- Training: Applicants must complete a 20-hour basic security training course approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). The course covers topics such as basic security skills, legal and ethical issues, and emergency response.
- Licensing Exam: After completing the training course, applicants must pass an exam administered by the IDFPR.
- Application: Applicants must submit an application for a security guard license to the IDFPR, along with a set of fingerprints for a criminal background check.
- Insurance: Security guards must also carry liability insurance while on duty.
What does a security guard do in the USA?
Security guards in the United States should possess a range of skills and abilities to perform their duties effectively. Here are some of the most important things that security guards should be able to do:
- Maintain Alertness and Attention to Detail: Security guards must be able to maintain a high level of alertness and attention to detail to detect and prevent security breaches. This involves being aware of their surroundings, identifying potential security threats, and taking appropriate action to mitigate risks.
- Communicate Effectively: Security guards should be able to communicate effectively with others, including colleagues, clients, and members of the public. This involves using clear and concise language, active listening, and conflict resolution skills.
- Exercise Good Judgment: Security guards must be able to make good decisions quickly, especially in emergency situations. This involves assessing the situation, evaluating risks, and making informed decisions based on the available information.
- Respond Quickly and Appropriately to Emergencies: Security guards must be able to respond quickly and appropriately to emergencies, including medical emergencies, fires, and criminal activity. This involves following established emergency protocols, providing assistance, and communicating effectively with emergency responders.
- Maintain Physical Fitness: Security guards may need to stand or walk for long periods of time, climb stairs, or engage in physical altercations if necessary. It is important that security guards maintain a certain level of physical fitness to perform their duties effectively.
- Use Security Equipment and Technology: Security guards should be proficient in the use of security equipment and technology, such as surveillance cameras, access control systems, and metal detectors. This involves understanding how the equipment works and being able to use it to detect and prevent security breaches.
- Provide Excellent Customer Service: Security guards are often the first point of contact for visitors and clients, and should be able to provide excellent customer service. This involves being polite, friendly, and helpful, and responding to questions or concerns in a timely and professional manner.
Armed Security Guard Requirements
The requirements for becoming an armed security guard vary by state, but here are some general requirements that are common in many states:
- Basic Security Guard Training: In most states, armed security guards must complete the same basic training as unarmed security guards. This can include training in legal and ethical issues, emergency response, and basic security skills.
- Firearms Training: Armed security guards must complete firearms training that is approved by their state. This typically includes training in firearms safety, marksmanship, and the legal use of force. The number of hours of training required can vary by state.
- Background Check: Armed security guards must undergo a thorough background check, which may include a criminal history check, a credit check, and a review of their employment history. They may also be required to submit fingerprints.
- License or Certification: In most states, armed security guards must obtain a license or certification that allows them to carry a firearm on duty. The requirements for obtaining a license or certification can vary by state, but typically include completing the required training and passing a written and/or practical exam.
- Age Requirement: In most states, armed security guards must be at least 21 years old.
- Physical Requirements: Armed security guards must meet certain physical requirements, such as being able to lift and carry a certain amount of weight, and being in good physical health.
- Ongoing Training and Education: Armed security guards must participate in ongoing training and education to maintain their license or certification. This can include firearms training, legal and ethical issues, and other topics relevant to their job duties.
How to get an Armed Security Guard License?
An armed security guard license is a type of license that allows an individual to carry a firearm as part of their job duties as a security guard. The license is issued by the state in which the individual intends to work and typically requires completion of specific training and other qualifications.
Once an individual has met all of the requirements for an armed security guard license, they can apply for the license from the appropriate state agency. The license typically needs to be renewed periodically, and individuals may need to undergo additional training and testing to maintain their license.
Having an armed security guard license allows individuals to work as armed security guards in a variety of settings, including government buildings, financial institutions, and other high-security facilities. However, it is important to note that the use of deadly force by armed security guards is heavily regulated, and individuals must always act within the bounds of the law and use good judgment when carrying a firearm on the job.
Security Guard Training
Security guard training is the process of providing individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to work as security guards. The training typically covers a range of topics, including legal and ethical issues, emergency response procedures, basic security skills, and specific job duties.
The specific requirements for security guard training can vary by state, but in general, the training must be provided by a licensed training facility and meet certain minimum standards. In addition, individuals must pass a written exam and, in some cases, a practical skills test, in order to obtain a license or certification to work as a security guard.
The length and depth of security guard training can also vary depending on the type of security work the individual will be performing. For example, armed security guards must undergo additional training in the use of firearms, while security guards working in healthcare settings may need specialized training in dealing with patients and medical emergencies.
In addition to initial training, many states require security guards to participate in ongoing training and education in order to maintain their license or certification. This may include annual refresher courses, firearms training, and other specialized training related to their job duties.
Security Unarmed and Armed Training Classes in Chicago
In Chicago, there are many security training classes available to individuals who wish to become licensed security guards or to maintain their license. Here are some of the most popular security training classes in Chicago:
- Basic Security Training Course: This 20-hour course is required by the state of Illinois for anyone who wishes to become a licensed security guard. It covers topics such as legal and ethical issues, emergency response, and basic security skills.
- Advanced Security Training Course: This course is designed for individuals who have already completed the basic security training course and wish to further their education in the security field. It covers topics such as crisis management, threat assessment, and risk analysis.
- Firearm Training Course: This course is required for security guards who wish to carry a firearm on duty. It covers firearm safety, marksmanship, and the legal use of force.
- CPR and First Aid Training Course: This course is not required for security guards, but it is highly recommended. It covers basic life-saving skills such as CPR, first aid, and AED use.
- Crowd Control Training Course: This course is designed for security guards who work in venues where large crowds are present, such as concerts, sporting events, and conventions. It covers crowd management techniques, safety protocols, and emergency response.
These training courses are offered by a variety of training providers in Chicago, including community colleges, private security companies, and online training programs. It’s important to choose a training provider that is approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) to ensure that your training meets state requirements.
How to take training and courses for a security guard in Chicago?
If you want to get a job as a security guard, S.O.S Private Security is a reliable and trustly security company in Chicago. For more information about jobs or training and courses from S.O.S., you can contact them through various communication channels. Call us at (708) 341-0928 or fill out the contact form on our homepage.
FAQ
What are security guards?
Security guards are individuals who are hired to protect people, property, and assets from potential threats, such as theft, vandalism, or violence.
What are the two types of security guards?
There are two types of security guards: unarmed security guards and armed security guards.
What does an unarmed security guard do?
An unarmed security guard is responsible for maintaining the safety and security of people and property by observing, reporting, and deterring criminal activity. They may be authorized to use non-lethal force, such as pepper spray or a baton, in certain situations.
What does an armed security guard do?
An armed security guard is responsible for protecting people and property from potential threats, and their primary duty is to deter or respond to criminal activity.
What are the important skills that security guards should possess?
Security guards should possess a range of skills and abilities, including maintaining alertness and attention to detail, communicating effectively, exercising good judgment, responding quickly and appropriately to emergencies, maintaining physical fitness, using security equipment and technology, and providing excellent customer service.
What are the requirements for becoming an armed security guard?
The requirements for becoming an armed security guard vary by state, but they commonly include completing basic security guard training, completing firearms training that is approved by the state, undergoing a thorough background check, and obtaining a license or certification that allows them to carry a firearm on duty.