The Important Role of the Armed Security Guard During a Pandemic

If the current pandemic has taught us anything, it is that different people react to a crisis in vastly different ways. While much of society has accepted the need for social distancing and business shutdowns, some people have taken it upon themselves to use the crisis as an opportunity to commit various crimes. Burglaries and break-ins have been on the rise, as criminals exploit the Covid-19 pandemic for their own nefarious purposes. In times like these, the role of the armed security guard is more important than ever before.

Of course, it is not just empty stores and commercial properties that need to be safeguarded. Many essential businesses are at increased risk as well, as the economy has been brought to a standstill by state government-ordered shutdowns. The reality is that many people panic in a crisis, and panicked people can pose a unique threat to societal order – and to your business operation.

The Armed Security Guard Protects What Matters

Panic is a defining characteristic in almost any pandemic situation. Scared people can act irrationally even in the best of times. During pandemics, that irrationality can be magnified many-fold. People stockpile goods. Some take it to an extreme, hoarding things that their neighbors may need and creating artificial shortages in stores. Still, others become so desperate that they may shoplift or loot. In short, society can hang on the precipice, as a fearful populace resorts to uncivil behavior in an attempt to survive.

The armed security guard is an important deterrent to societal deterioration. He or she can protect shuttered businesses to deter looting, burglaries, and vandalism – providing the added security business owners need to safeguard their investments. Guards can also provide important protection for active businesses like supermarkets and retail stores. Their presence offers a sense of calm and order for otherwise panicked patrons. In addition, they can help to prevent threatening situations and respond to conflict as needed.

Armed Security Guard Training Still Available

Because of their important role in New York City’s protection, armed security guard training has continued during the current pandemic. Those schools and training facilities were declared essential early in the crisis, ensuring that aspiring guards could continue to receive the training they need to meet the demand for private security protection. That’s great news for the city’s businesses, which have been forced to reevaluate their security needs to accommodate this new reality.

Looking to the Future

Whether you operate a business in need of armed security guard protection or are interested in a career as a licensed guard, International Security Services has the answers you need. As New York City’s dedicated security experts, we maintain a team of highly-trained, reliable security officers whose skills and experience can help to protect both life and property. In addition, our training facility provides state-approved guard training that gives students the tools they need to become effective armed security guards. To learn more about how we can help to meet your needs, contact us today.

George Kozhar

George Kozhar is a respected security professional, licensed private investigator, and founder of International Security Services (ISS) - New York City’s dedicated security experts since 1999. Mr. Kozhar and his team provide a full array of private and business investigative services in the U.S. and overseas, VIP executive protection, armed and unarmed security guard services and training, and Fire and Life Safety Director training through the company’s Fire Science Institute.