Things to look for during mobile security patrols
Mobile security patrols are one of the most effective ways for security guard companies to keep an overall eye on any location. Mobile patrols are more commonly offered by security companies in Virginia and Maryland Suburban areas than urban areas within Washington DC or Baltimore. Regardless of the jurisdiction vigilance is essential for these security patrols to be effective. Security guards must be able to spot even small changes that could indicate a problem exists or a risk is present. Here are a few things security guards should look for during security patrols in a security vehicle.
Observe what has changed?
As you manage the mobile patrol it is essential that you use security observation skills . Look for anything that’s changed since your last drive through the area. Specifically, look for anything out of the ordinary, but pay attention to anything that’s different. Some examples include:
- Doors that are open (especially doors that should not be or are routinely closed
- Any sign of damage, such as a broken window, that could be evidence of a crime taking place
- Any signs of forced entry, such as marks on a door or window ledge
- Anything obscuring the view you usually have (what is that there?)
- Vehicles positioned in the wrong location, which could indicate someone is blocking your view or otherwise engaging in curious behavior
As you patrol the area, take notice of doors, windows, and large objects of value. Ask yourself if anything has changed since your last visit. And, if you are not sure, take a closer look.
What are the people doing?
A key part of keeping a lookout for what is happening on any property should focus on monitoring people and those around you. View most people as a security risk. There are some instances that warrant closer inspection to pinpoint potential risk more thoroughly. Be cautious in situations such as these:
- Vehicles are sitting outside of the house or property especially if they are occupied for more than a few minutes. These can indicate a person planning a burglary or otherwise casing the property.
- Notice vehicles being driven in an unsafe manner. This may include speeding, driving erratically, swerving, or speeding away quickly from a stopped position. You may need to report these incidents to the police (most security guards do not have the ability to pull someone over).
- Teens and young adults, especially in groups, around the property are also a higher risk situation. Teens are more likely to cause problems when they are in groups.
- People watching others from a distance should be carefully considered. This is especially true of adults watching smaller children playing or walking. Strangers like this could be a pedophile or otherwise a risk to that child and others in the area.
- Monitor slow moving groups as well. When traffic or a group of people slowly approach an area, this could indicate they are planning to take some action. This could a drastic incident such as a drive by.
Most importantly, if you see anyone in a vehicle or on foot that is not normally in that area, monitor what they are doing. Often times, you do not need to take action, but can watch a person from a distance. Don’t zero in on just one person, though, and neglect the surrounding area where additional threats may be present.
Listen to your inner voice
In nearly all situations, mobile security patrols can be more successful if they are paying attention and are willing to sue their training and go with your gut in terms of monitoring people in various situations. Take the time to get to know the area well so you can be proactive rather than reactive in security situations. Listen to that little voice in your head that is saying…”lets take a closer look over there” A curious security guard is a great security guard. When encountering suspects be sure to us security communication techniques to tell if they are lying . Security companies like ours encourages their guards to be well trained and to follow their instincts.
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