In the city of Los Angeles this past week, in a period of two days, security officers found themselves under attack by heavy gunfire.

In one case two mall security officers confronted a suspected shoplifter when the suspect pulled a firearm and opened fire on the officers.  In the second incident a security officers working at a retail establishment confronted armed suspects who were attempting to rob the business, and a gun battle ensued.  In the mall shooting the suspect was eventually killed by the police during a second exchange of gunfire, and in the second incident one of the security officers fatally wounded one of the suspects and the other remains at large.

These types of incidents have been occurring throughout the United States where security officers find themselves in life and death situations.  Although the total number of security officer deaths decreased in numbers from 2013 compared to 2012, there were still 73 security officers killed on the job in 2013, with about 38 of those as a result of being shot.  Also in 2013 security officers were involved in approximately 50 gun battles, and during those incidents more than two dozen people were killed.  Statistics also indicate that the most dangerous assignment for security officers is that of retail/loss prevention.

The role of security officers has changed over the years, and many times when suspects are confronted by security officers for any reason, that contact can turn deadly for the officer, suspect, other employees, or your customers.  Even if your security officers are unarmed the suspect may still use a firearm, and that may also result in a customer, that is legally permitted to carry a concealed weapon, to intervene for their own safety of the safety of others.  So what can or should a business do?

In simple terms you must first know your security risks and vulnerabilities.  Without knowing your risks or vulnerabilities how can you possibly work towards reducing your risks and therefore insure that your employees and customers are safe?  So how can you determine your security risks and/or vulnerabilities?  Conduct a security risk assessment.

Security Risk Assessment

When properly conducted by a qualified security expert, a security risk assessment will give you a comprehensive and unbiased assessment of your security related risks and weaknesses.  Part of any proper assessment will include the current level of training and competency of the security staff, as well as the protection measures in place at your business.

Many times a business, or even businesses near the location of a serious incident, will conduct a security risk assessment after an incident takes place.  However, at that point it is often too late.  By conducting an assessment post-incident, you are being reactive in nature.  Your goal should be to be proactive and conduct the assessment before a serious incident or loss of life.

Armed Security verses Unarmed Security

Security is taking on a more active role and as a result they are more likely to be involved in armed confrontations. Train your staff well and often, so that when they get into a dangerous situation they know how to respond.  There is no requirement to arm your security staff, but when you do your risks and liability exposure will likely increase.  However, does this mean that the security officers should never be armed?  No, but it is in your best interest to do your due diligence and determine whether or not any weapons are justified for your security or loss prevention staff.

Prevention is the Best Approach for Safety and Security

We believe that prevention is the ideal approach. Our security assessments are designed to help you be proactive, and not reactive in your security measures. Let us bring our expertise to your business and secure your future as a safe and risk-free workplace.