Scrutinise credentials when hiring armed security guards

The main question to ask is whether what is being protected is so valuable that, without armed protection, an armed attack or robbery is likely.
Banks stand out as an obvious example of premises where armed protection is essential.
Wherever significant am-ounts of cash or valuables need protecting, armed guards may be necessary. Large warehouses may require perimeter patrols by armed guards
Where an individual has reason to fear that he or she might be a target for armed attackers or where an attack has already taken place or lives been threatened, then armed guards might be advisable or even necessary.
Police permission is required for the use of an armed guard. Police must be satisfied that the risk to property or an individual would justify an armed guard, before they grant that permission.
If you do require an armed guard, you can approach a security company that offers this service.
Selecting the right company is important. Firearms are dangerous.
It is vital that you be satisfied that the guard you will be provided with is well trained and competent in the use of his/her firearm.
A security firm that is offering a professional service will appreciate your concerns and be happy to answer any enquiries you may have about the training or competency of the guards it proposes assigning to you.
The guards concerned should have certificates of firearm competency. You are entitled to ask to see the certificates.
Ask about the training the guards have received. Have they been trained in how to challenge an armed man?
Ask how often they have firearms practice. Ask where they go for shooting range practice.
Ask how often the weapons they use are serviced. You can ask to look at the firearm’s service record.
It is crucial that, if required to use his/her firearm, the guard knows how to use it in a manner that is effective and does not pose a danger to those he/she is charged with protecting.
It is equally crucial that he/she has sufficient ammunition and that his/her weapon does not let him/her down.
Find out whether the guard will wear a bullet-proof vest.
The fact that he/she is armed makes him/her a target for the determined armed robber or kidnapper.
You can ask about the guard’s background. Previous military or police experience is an obvious advantage for an armed guard.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Hiring an armed guard is too important to take risks with or to just presume that all security companies can be trusted.

– This column is sponsored by Safeguard Security in the public interest.
If you have security issues you would like advice on in this column, please e-mail your request to mail@mhpr.co.zw or telephone Jackie at Safeguard Security, Tel. 751395 9.