Equipment

 

BATON LICENSING

Most states require that security officers pass a baton training class and issued a baton license before they are allowed to carry one on duty.  Check with your instructor regarding your State’s regulations.

BATON HOLDER

The baton holder is worn on the belt to hold your baton when patrolling.   If you’re right handed, the baton should be carried on the left side the reverse is true if you are left handed. The reason for this as you will see shortly is that when you remove the baton it is done using a crossed sword action.

BATON

It is important to remember that a baton is a defensive weapon; it is not an offense weapon. It is used to protect you or someone else if attacked. There is no other purpose for it.

TWO WAY RADIOS

Prior to cell phones the two-way radios and land line telephones were the only means of communication.  Many security companies the two-way radio is still the primary means of communication.

RADIOS MUST WORK

To operate effectively, two-way radios require direct line of site from one radio to the other radios. The problem is that if something like a tall building or hills between them, they become unusable.

BATTERIES

All portable radios need a battery to power them. Batteries must be charged everyday. To be sure you always have a fresh battery.  At the end of your shift depending on the charger, place the radio in the charger or take the battery out of the radio and charge it.

CELL PHONES

Unlike two-way radios, cell phones not only allow two people to talk at the same time, they have an almost unlimited range. If you use a cell phone we recommend that you keep it in a secure case on your belt.  There are three reasons for that.  One, you won’t have to fumble around digging it out of your pocket its right there when you need it. Two, you are less likely to damage it. Three you will hear the ring tone better.

GUARD TOUR SYSTEMS

If your company uses a guard tour system that requires a hand-held reader it should be kept in the holster provided until it is needed. Scan your check stations and then return the reader to its holster. These readers, like radios, are very expensive you don’t want to have to pay for one should you lose or damage it.

POST KEYS

Always secure your post keys on onto your key ring holder. Your key holder should be on your belt next to the radio. When you turn in your post keys at the end of your shift, keeping them on your key holder will help you to notice that the keys are there. Never walk around with post keys in your pocket, hung over your baton or radio. You are almost guaranteed to lose them.

FLASHLIGHTS

Another important piece of equipment is your flashlight.

SHOULD YOU CARRYING A FLASHLIGHT IN THE DAY TIME?

The answer is Absolutely.  What if you’re working inside a warehouse or high rise building and the lights go out?  What if you have to go into a basement or tunnel?  You never know when you will need your flashlight, so carry it and you will always be ready. It goes without saying that you have to have a flashlight at night, even if your assignment is inside.

NOTEBOOK & POCKET MANUAL

There are two pockets on all uniform shirts.  One is for your notebook and pen the other is for your company pocket manual. Carry your notebook and pen, in the pocket that has the pen slot. Incidentally always remember to retract the point of the ball point pen so that you don’t stain your shirt.

DON’TS WHILE ON DUTY

  • Don’t listen to radios or I-phones
  • Don’t wear ear plugs for I-phones. The only exception is if you are using a cell phone for communication for company business.
  • Don’t patrol with beverage cans or bottles
  • Don’t eat meals or snacks while patrolling
  • Don’t text or receive texts with friends while on patrol.
  • Don’t carry unapproved weapons any time.
  • There are more, and you should refer to your companies policy and procedure manuals.

START OF THE SHIFT

Before you begin patrol look in the mirror and be sure you’re wearing that uniform according to company standards. Make that statement, I am a professional and I am ready to do my duties. If you follow this uniform dress code rules you will feel pride in yourself and be an asset to your company.