Knowing when and how to hire security guards is important now more than ever. Property owners and business leaders increasingly recognize that robust security measures are no longer optional, but essential. Regulatory changes, advancements in technology, and increased security risks have driven the need for more and better security. Since Americans prioritize safety, businesses and property managers who invest in professional security solutions position themselves to meet both current demands and future expectations.

If you want to level up your security by hiring professional guards, there are three main questions that you need to ask:

• How many security guards should I hire?
• How much security can I afford?
• How do I find the best security guards?

Here we will take an in-depth look at these questions and how you can find the right answers for your business or property.

How Many Security Guards Should I Hire?

How many security guards you need will depend on your specific situation and what you are hiring them for. 

Onsite Security

If you have a small business or property you may want to hire just one or two guards that can patrol the property and keep it safe. Mobile patrols are great for keeping large parking areas or business property after hours safe. However, for a retail establishment, it may be better to have a guard who can watch cameras, man an entry or exit point, or work to prevent shoplifting. 

In these types of scenarios, it is good to work with a company like Elite Investigations to determine the best way to utilize security guards as well as how many you may need. Perhaps it is better to have a guard for each entry point, or maybe a combination of mobile patrol and in-store or in-office security would work better. They can help you decide. 

Event Security

Event security can be a complex issue to navigate. You may want security for the event itself, such as having security guards who able to provide access control, line control, and general security. Considering flaggers or mobile patrols for parking can be an issue when large numbers of people are all converging at one site. Security guards are irreplaceable should your event be caught with a surprise security concern or emergency. 

When determining security needs for an event, it is also important to consider the laws in your state. Some states mandate a specific number of security guards needed per person, per entrance, or square foot of space involved. For some businesses, fire patrols are required due to their specific operations. 

Security for Emergencies

Many times an emergency may cause the need for security guards. They can patrol an area after a fire, robbery, or natural disaster to ensure that only permitted personnel enter a building or area. They are invaluable for keeping criminals and opportunists from capitalizing on these kinds of situations. How many guards are needed will depend on the exact situation.

How Much Security Can I Afford?

Price tags and bottom lines matter when you run a business or own a property. When it comes to security, hiring guards usually pays for itself. While there is an upfront cost to hiring them, in the end, guards save most businesses money and can even increase your bottom line. 

Security guards help to eliminate shoplifting, employee theft, and shrinkage in general. They are a boost to your reputation because everyone will see your commitment to security. Best of all, guards make customers, employees, and tenants feel safer which makes them want to choose you over a business that does not have visible security.

How Do I Find the Best Security Guards?

To hire the best security guards call Elite Investigations at (866) 779-5017 or visit online for a free quote. Elite Investigations hires and trains professional security guards who can be proactive and keep your events, business, and property safe no matter what the situation calls for.