Whether armed or unarmed, all private security guards undergo extensive training. While this will, of course, include varying degrees of combat tutelage, the hallmark of the best unarmed and armed security guards is the ability to recognize and diffuse any potentially volatile situation. Such proficiency is crucial, preventing the escalation of an incident before it occurs.
Further training includes that of risk assessment, something especially vital when it comes to the field of armed executive or close protection. Strategic analysis of real, potential, and possible risk, with multiple action plans for any eventuality, are crucial skills of the armed close protection agent.
The number of private armed security guards is on the increase, and are a common sight in many public areas. These include places such as banks, schools, and churches.
Every state has slightly differing license and certification requirements surrounding the regulation of armed security guards. When carrying out their duties there’s always the potential of having to discharge their weapon, therefore each individual must have the expertise to store, care for, and correctly utilize the firearm should the situation arise. Such a responsibility naturally warrants extensive and ongoing training.