What it Takes to be Licensed, and Why it’s Important.
Armed security guards help to keep business and industrial areas safe. They are also called “commissioned” security officers or guards because they are commissioned by the State of Texas to carry a weapon in the course of their duties. An armed security force helps to give people peace of mind. Texas has strict licensing requirements for all security officers and specifically commissioned officers. Guards can improve safety and security in their operating areas. Some people may be confused about what these guards actually do. They are not law enforcement officers, and they serve a completely different purpose within the community, by securing private property.
What it Takes
Becoming a security officer is all about responsibility, honesty, and moral integrity. Sterling Protective Services, Inc. is incredibly strict about hiring new guards. There are rigorous licensing requirements to become an armed security officer. Guards should also be alert and sensitive to the activity in their operating area. Sterling Protective’s armed officers are professional in carrying out their security duties for each client served.
Licensing
The Texas Department of Public Safety’s Private Security Bureau regulates the licensing for private armed guards in the state. They require guards to be qualified and proficient in handling and shooting of firearms in order to get licensed. Guards must also take educational classes and re-qualify every two years. The licensing requires both classroom and range time to ensure the commissioned or armed guard is not just theoretically prepared. This class teaches firearm safety and more importantly, that they are to use their firearm as a last resort, under very specific circumstances.
The Benefits of Hiring an Armed Security Guard
Onsite security can help to keep businesses and organizations safe. A security guard can give employees and visitors peace of mind. Armed officers provide a very strong deterrent to criminal activity.
The Job of a Security Officer
Armed security guards aren’t law enforcement personnel. They are privately hired to provide onsite security. They aren’t investigating crimes or interfering with official police business. They are providing a safe monitoring presence to privately owned businesses. Security guards can help to make any location safer and more secure.
When to Hire an Armed Guard
Not every security site needs a commissioned officer, but when high value products, people or large quantities of money are involved, it’s probably worth implementing an armed guard. Banks, Financial Institutions, Government Sites and Jewelry Stores are examples of properties that might need a Commissioned Officer. The weapon acts as an extra deterrent, and should only be used in instances where lives are at risk.
The first step in keeping your workplace safe is contacting an experienced security company. A reputable company understands the ever-changing needs of the security industry. Contact the skilled professionals at Sterling Protective Services for more information. We can answer questions and help you assess your business security needs. Sterling Protective has been in business since 1989 and has years of experience providing commissioned officers.
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About Melissa Montiel
Melissa joined Sterling Protective Services in 2007 as Marketing Director. She is responsible for all marketing efforts for the company, including business development and sales for all branch locations. This includes Sterling's website, search engine optimization, and social media efforts. She also manages Sterling's government relations program and Sterling's charitable giving program. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Baylor University.
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