Armed vs. Unarmed Guards: What’s Right for Your Business?

When to Choose Armed Guards

Armed guards are most commonly employed in high-risk situations where there is a potential for violent crimes, such as:

• High-Value Assets: If your business deals with valuable goods or sensitive information, having an armed guard on site can serve as a deterrent to theft, robbery, or corporate espionage.
• Large-Scale Events: For events that draw large crowds, such as concerts, conventions, or public demonstrations, armed security can provide an additional layer of protection against potential threats, including active shooter situations.
• High-Crime Areas: Businesses located in areas with high crime rates or where threats are more likely should consider armed guards to ensure the safety of both employees and customers.
• Potential Threats: If your business is dealing with controversial issues or high-profile clients, armed security and private investigation may be necessary to protect against potential threats or workplace violence.

When to Choose Unarmed Guards

Unarmed guards are recommended for businesses in lower-risk environments where there is little to no threat of violence. Here are some situations where unarmed security might be more appropriate:

• Retail Stores and Shopping Centers: For businesses that simply need a deterrent against petty theft, unarmed guards can provide visible security without escalating the situation unnecessarily.
• Offices and Professional Environments: In corporate environments where security threats are rare, unarmed guards and private investigation experts can offer adequate protection.
• Residential Communities: Security guards in gated communities or apartment complexes perform duties such as patrolling, monitoring entrances, and assisting with community safety. Armed guards are typically not needed unless there’s an extraordinary threat.
• Public Spaces and Events: For events or venues that have a low risk of violence, unarmed guards are effective in providing crowd control, checking IDs, or ensuring a peaceful atmosphere.

If you’re torn between choosing armed and unarmed guards, you’ll want to consider the risk level, budget, legal regulations, employee and customer comfort, and other factors. You can consult with a professional security firm that provides armed and unarmed security services. Here at Global Bureau of Security & Investigations, we can evaluate all the crucial factors and help you make an informed decision.

Contact Global Bureau of Security & Investigations for Professional Security Services

Looking for a reputable company providing armed personal protection? Contact the Global Bureau of Security & Investigations today. We are a top-rated private investigation service and security firm offering a wide range of services to individuals, government agencies, and private sector clients. If you’re in need of armed or unarmed security guards, we are the company to call. We also have a team of private investigators drawn from law enforcement and military backgrounds to ensure that our clients’ security and investigation needs are handled with the highest level of expertise.