3 answers
Jasper
Student
Sedro-Woolley, Washington
2
Questions
Asked
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Is security and protective services as dangerous as people and TV make it seem?
I am working towards getting training in security and protective services. I'm just a little scared of the risks.
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3 answers
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1750
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Jasper,
Your training, and a bit of common sense, will get you through most situations that you encounter. One of the biggest "risk" contributors in security-related occupations is Complacency. Suppose you are assigned to investigate a burglar alarm at a business during a thunderstorm. You know that alarm always malfunctions during a thunderstorm. So, you approach it with a sort of carefree attitude, you'll go take a quick look around and lock the door. Except, this time, it was real. Now, you are mentally unprepared.
Can the job be dangerous and scary? Absolutely. But not every day. or even every month. You may be assigned to protect an abortion clinic, a high-profile target. There will be some hot-tempered people protesting there. Learning how to talk to people, how to give orders, how to voluntarily gain compliance, will come with time. But no matter how many strategies you utilize, some people simply won't comply. At all. And you will need to act calmly and decisively.
Something I learned as a police officer - is that I decide when I'm going to arrest someone. If I know someone has an outstanding warrant, but they don't know that I know (the importance of using proper radio codes) I can make small-talk until my backup arrives.
I honestly didn't think I'd be able to do the job, but ,when wearing the uniform, most (not all) people expect you to be able to solve problems, and respect your authority. As you progress through your career, you will gain true self confidence. Initially, I looked at it as an acting role!
If you are concerned that you may may hesitate when faced with situations requiring you to act, I would encourage you to consider enlisting in the military first. The training you will receive there is the best of the best.
Kim
Your training, and a bit of common sense, will get you through most situations that you encounter. One of the biggest "risk" contributors in security-related occupations is Complacency. Suppose you are assigned to investigate a burglar alarm at a business during a thunderstorm. You know that alarm always malfunctions during a thunderstorm. So, you approach it with a sort of carefree attitude, you'll go take a quick look around and lock the door. Except, this time, it was real. Now, you are mentally unprepared.
Can the job be dangerous and scary? Absolutely. But not every day. or even every month. You may be assigned to protect an abortion clinic, a high-profile target. There will be some hot-tempered people protesting there. Learning how to talk to people, how to give orders, how to voluntarily gain compliance, will come with time. But no matter how many strategies you utilize, some people simply won't comply. At all. And you will need to act calmly and decisively.
Something I learned as a police officer - is that I decide when I'm going to arrest someone. If I know someone has an outstanding warrant, but they don't know that I know (the importance of using proper radio codes) I can make small-talk until my backup arrives.
I honestly didn't think I'd be able to do the job, but ,when wearing the uniform, most (not all) people expect you to be able to solve problems, and respect your authority. As you progress through your career, you will gain true self confidence. Initially, I looked at it as an acting role!
If you are concerned that you may may hesitate when faced with situations requiring you to act, I would encourage you to consider enlisting in the military first. The training you will receive there is the best of the best.
Kim
Thank you for giving me advice.
Dina Capaldi
Assistant Security Manager
6
Answers
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Dina’s Answer
Every role comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in our increasingly sensitive modern world. I've spent 6.5 rewarding years in the security field, a profession I genuinely love. Each day brings something fresh and exciting, offering the chance to interact with a diverse range of individuals at the casino where I work.
In a casino environment, with high stakes and intense emotions, you experience the full spectrum of human emotions - from joy and sadness to extreme anger and euphoria, and everything in between. The key to handling unpredictable situations lies in your training, common sense, and treating others as you'd like to be treated. It's not about wielding power, but about empathizing with customers, whether they're having a good day or a bad one. This empathy can be the difference between escalating a situation and defusing it.
It's important not to fall into the trap of comparing real life to what you see on TV - even the most 'real' reality shows are scripted. And never underestimate your role as a Security Officer. Thinking you have no power can lower your defenses and increase risk. Security is a crucial role, and its significance is determined by how you approach it.
One aspect that's often overlooked is that as a security officer, you're also the first line of defense and the protector of your company's assets. Your training could even help you save a life. If you're considering a career in law enforcement, this role can be an excellent springboard. But even if law enforcement isn't your goal, there are numerous opportunities for advancement within the private security sector.
In a casino environment, with high stakes and intense emotions, you experience the full spectrum of human emotions - from joy and sadness to extreme anger and euphoria, and everything in between. The key to handling unpredictable situations lies in your training, common sense, and treating others as you'd like to be treated. It's not about wielding power, but about empathizing with customers, whether they're having a good day or a bad one. This empathy can be the difference between escalating a situation and defusing it.
It's important not to fall into the trap of comparing real life to what you see on TV - even the most 'real' reality shows are scripted. And never underestimate your role as a Security Officer. Thinking you have no power can lower your defenses and increase risk. Security is a crucial role, and its significance is determined by how you approach it.
One aspect that's often overlooked is that as a security officer, you're also the first line of defense and the protector of your company's assets. Your training could even help you save a life. If you're considering a career in law enforcement, this role can be an excellent springboard. But even if law enforcement isn't your goal, there are numerous opportunities for advancement within the private security sector.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jasper!
Understanding the Risks in Security and Protective Services
When considering a career in security and protective services, it’s essential to evaluate the perceived dangers versus the realities of the profession. Media portrayals often exaggerate risks for dramatic effect, which can lead to misconceptions about the day-to-day experiences of professionals in this field.
1. Nature of the Work
Security and protective services encompass a broad range of roles, including security guards, private investigators, bodyguards, and law enforcement officers. The level of danger associated with these positions varies significantly based on factors such as:
Type of Environment: Working in high-risk areas (e.g., nightclubs, events with large crowds) may present more dangers than working in corporate settings or residential security.
Specific Role: Bodyguards may face higher risks compared to security personnel monitoring surveillance cameras or conducting routine patrols.
2. Statistics on Violence and Crime
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), while some positions within security services do involve exposure to potentially dangerous situations, overall job-related violence is relatively low compared to other professions. For instance:
The BLS reports that security guards experience a higher rate of non-fatal injuries compared to many other occupations; however, fatal incidents are rare.
Law enforcement officers face significant risks but also benefit from extensive training and support systems designed to mitigate those risks.
3. Training and Preparedness
Training programs for security personnel typically include components focused on risk assessment, conflict resolution, emergency response, and self-defense techniques. This preparation is crucial for minimizing danger:
Risk Management: Understanding how to assess situations effectively can help prevent dangerous encounters.
De-escalation Techniques: Many training programs emphasize verbal skills that can defuse potentially violent situations without physical confrontation.
4. Psychological Factors
Fear of danger can be exacerbated by media representations that highlight extreme cases rather than typical experiences. It’s important to recognize that while there are inherent risks in any job related to public safety, many professionals report feeling secure due to their training and preparedness.
5. Real-Life Experiences
Many individuals working in security report that their jobs involve routine tasks such as monitoring premises, providing customer service, and ensuring compliance with regulations rather than engaging in confrontational scenarios. Personal accounts often reveal that most shifts pass without incident.
Conclusion: Balancing Risks with Reality
While there are certainly risks associated with careers in security and protective services, they are often overstated by popular media. With proper training and awareness of best practices for safety and risk management, many professionals find their work rewarding without facing constant danger.
In summary, pursuing a career in this field does come with certain risks; however, these can be managed effectively through training and situational awareness. It is advisable for you to focus on acquiring comprehensive training that prepares you for various scenarios you might encounter.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on employment statistics across various industries including safety statistics related to jobs in security services.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
NIOSH conducts research on workplace safety including studies specifically addressing hazards faced by workers in protective services.
International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO)
IFPO offers resources and training standards aimed at enhancing professionalism within the security industry while addressing common concerns regarding workplace safety.
God Bless!
JC.
Understanding the Risks in Security and Protective Services
When considering a career in security and protective services, it’s essential to evaluate the perceived dangers versus the realities of the profession. Media portrayals often exaggerate risks for dramatic effect, which can lead to misconceptions about the day-to-day experiences of professionals in this field.
1. Nature of the Work
Security and protective services encompass a broad range of roles, including security guards, private investigators, bodyguards, and law enforcement officers. The level of danger associated with these positions varies significantly based on factors such as:
Type of Environment: Working in high-risk areas (e.g., nightclubs, events with large crowds) may present more dangers than working in corporate settings or residential security.
Specific Role: Bodyguards may face higher risks compared to security personnel monitoring surveillance cameras or conducting routine patrols.
2. Statistics on Violence and Crime
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), while some positions within security services do involve exposure to potentially dangerous situations, overall job-related violence is relatively low compared to other professions. For instance:
The BLS reports that security guards experience a higher rate of non-fatal injuries compared to many other occupations; however, fatal incidents are rare.
Law enforcement officers face significant risks but also benefit from extensive training and support systems designed to mitigate those risks.
3. Training and Preparedness
Training programs for security personnel typically include components focused on risk assessment, conflict resolution, emergency response, and self-defense techniques. This preparation is crucial for minimizing danger:
Risk Management: Understanding how to assess situations effectively can help prevent dangerous encounters.
De-escalation Techniques: Many training programs emphasize verbal skills that can defuse potentially violent situations without physical confrontation.
4. Psychological Factors
Fear of danger can be exacerbated by media representations that highlight extreme cases rather than typical experiences. It’s important to recognize that while there are inherent risks in any job related to public safety, many professionals report feeling secure due to their training and preparedness.
5. Real-Life Experiences
Many individuals working in security report that their jobs involve routine tasks such as monitoring premises, providing customer service, and ensuring compliance with regulations rather than engaging in confrontational scenarios. Personal accounts often reveal that most shifts pass without incident.
Conclusion: Balancing Risks with Reality
While there are certainly risks associated with careers in security and protective services, they are often overstated by popular media. With proper training and awareness of best practices for safety and risk management, many professionals find their work rewarding without facing constant danger.
In summary, pursuing a career in this field does come with certain risks; however, these can be managed effectively through training and situational awareness. It is advisable for you to focus on acquiring comprehensive training that prepares you for various scenarios you might encounter.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on employment statistics across various industries including safety statistics related to jobs in security services.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
NIOSH conducts research on workplace safety including studies specifically addressing hazards faced by workers in protective services.
International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO)
IFPO offers resources and training standards aimed at enhancing professionalism within the security industry while addressing common concerns regarding workplace safety.
God Bless!
JC.