At least half the world’s population lives in countries with more private security workers than public police officers. In the United States, security guards outnumber police by 1.1 million compared to 666,000, and the number of private security guards keeps growing. Today, an increasing number of people are looking into hiring security guards for themselves, their businesses, and for special events than ever before. Hiring the right security team can be a daunting task, and the last thing many companies have time to consider is understanding the difference between private security and public security. While the two generally serve the same purpose, there are identifiable differences between each option that may affect the outcome of protection at businesses. Here’s what you need to know about the difference between private and public security in order to make an informed decision that is best for you.
*** To fully understand the difference between private and public security, we will explain them both separately.
What is Public Security?
Public security is a service provided by the government that includes police, federal officials, detectives, and other public security officials. Generally, public security organizations are involved in the prevention of and protection from events that could endanger the public’s safety from significant danger, injury, or property damage, such as crimes or disasters (natural or human-made).
What is Private Security?
Private security is not governed by the same standards as public security guards and is completely dedicated to the satisfaction of the business of the individual that hired them. Instead of adhering to the same restrictions that law enforcement does, private security guards focus on the job at hand and can tailor their performance duties to the specific needs of the client. Private security guards do not receive uniform training or certificates, and skill levels may vary depending on the region and type of entity hired to protect. However, high-quality private security companies will hire guards with previous military, law enforcement, or government backgrounds while additionally requiring a standard of training and credentials.
Since there are no government standards for private security firms, there are risks in hiring a company with untrained, inexperienced guards. Sadly, many businesses and organizations don’t realize the hazards of hiring a firm that provides unable guards. One way to think of this is to consider that police are very limited by the constitution when it comes to protecting private property. Private guards, however, may interact with anyone at any given time, as they represent the client rather than the law. Private guards also have the power to arrest without a warrant and on reasonable suspicion of a crime. The inconsistencies between the sectors make choosing a private firm more difficult because the expectations are less defined.
BPS Security is the Right Choice
Now that you know the To fully understand the difference between private and public security, it’s important to understand that choosing a reputable security firm requires due diligence, research, and time. Let us save you the hassle and tell you about the BPS difference. At BPS Security, we can provide you with custom security solutions to meet all regulatory requirements.
Our team is here to support and protect your employees and your business at all costs, so we implement all available solutions to match your desired outcome. Whether on-site security, roaming patrols, or armed or unarmed guards, BPS Security can provide fast deployment for your immediate security needs. Moreover, our custom-built software ensures that all licenses are renewed on time while also providing custom reports that meet all regulatory requirements for increased organization and efficiency.
If you need on-site security offers for a manufacturing facility, corporate office, or event venue (to name a few), BPS Security is here to help! Why choose any security guard or company when you can work with the best?
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