Ineffective patrols are a security liability.

High-value clients expect proactive strategies. They need a security guard patrol that deters crime, minimizes losses, and keeps their people and property safe.

How do you translate this into actionable plans for your security guards?

We’ll give you practical steps to assess client needs, train guards for targeted patrolling scenarios, and use technology to maximize patrol effectiveness.

By the end, you'll have a clear roadmap for transforming your security patrol operation into a competitive advantage, boosting client satisfaction, and driving revenue for your security company.

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What does security guard patrolling involve?

Security guard patrols are the backbone of on-site security. It's your guards in motion, actively checking things out and making sure everything is as it should be.

Effective patrols are built on three key objectives:

• Deterrence: A visible security presence discourages criminal activity. Regular patrols send a clear message that your clients' properties are well-guarded and monitored.

• Early detection and prevention: Your guards act as highly trained observers. They can identify suspicious activity, potential security breaches, or even safety hazards before they escalate into major incidents.

• Rapid response and reporting: Patrols ensure real-time awareness. Guards can immediately report any issues to you and the authorities, allowing for a faster and more effective response.

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What guards do on security patrol:

Effective patrols go beyond a simple walk-through. Guards will conduct thorough visual inspections of fences, gates, building exteriors, and other critical access points, searching for signs of tampering or potential breaches.

They'll also ensure cameras, alarms, access control systems, and other security measures are functioning properly and haven't been compromised.

Patrols should involve documented checks of specific areas and equipment. This allows for a clear audit trail and identification of any issues that require further investigation.

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Types of security guard patrolling

The best patrolling strategy depends on your client's specific security needs and property layout. Here are some common types of patrols:

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Fixed posts

Fixed posts involve assigning a security guard to a specific location or post. This guard remains stationed at that point, providing a constant, visible deterrent and ensuring meticulous monitoring of a critical area.

Ideal for:

• High-value assets like data centers, server rooms, or expensive inventory.
• Vulnerable access points like building entrances, loading docks, or cash rooms.
• Areas with a history of security incidents or requiring strict access control.

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Benefits of fixed post, particularly in high-risk areas: 

• Unwavering focus on critical assets: The guard's dedicated attention prevents lapses in monitoring, ensuring the safety and security of sensitive data, equipment, or valuables at all times.

• Expert-level familiarity: The assigned guard develops an intimate understanding of the specific location, its security protocols, and potential vulnerabilities. This allows them to detect even subtle changes or issues that might indicate a security breach.

• Streamlined incident response: In the event of an incident, the fixed post guard can react swiftly and effectively due to their in-depth knowledge of the area and established procedures. This can minimize damage and ensure a quicker resolution.

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Random patrols

In contrast to the focused presence of fixed posts, random patrols involve guards following unpredictable routes and schedules throughout a property.

Imagine a gated community with many houses and a central park. A predictable patrol route might leave blind spots criminals could exploit.

Random patrols throughout the day and night make it impossible to predict when a guard might be patrolling a specific street or the park, deterring vandalism or theft attempts.

This strategy thrives on the element of surprise, making it difficult for criminals to anticipate guard movements and plan their activities accordingly.

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Random patrols help deter crime by:

• Prioritizing unpredictability: Criminals rely on planning and exploiting weaknesses. Random patrols disrupt those plans by creating an environment of uncertainty. They never know where a guard might be, making them less likely to attempt a crime.

• Maximizing coverage: Random patrols allow guards to cover more ground than fixed posts, ensuring a watchful eye over a larger area of the property.

• Maintaining vigilance: The element of surprise keeps guards themselves alert and engaged. They need to be observant and ready to respond to any situation they encounter during their patrols.

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Routine patrols

Routine security rounds provide the foundation for a comprehensive security strategy. They involve guards following a predetermined schedule to patrol designated areas at regular intervals.

Over time, routine patrols can establish a baseline of typical activity on the property. This data can then be used to identify potential problem areas and adjust patrol schedules accordingly.

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This approach offers several key benefits:

• Consistent visibility: Routine security rounds on a set schedule assure clients that their property receives regular security checks. This predictability fosters a sense of trust and peace of mind.

• Methodical monitoring: By following a set schedule, guards can thoroughly inspect each designated area, ensuring no point is left unchecked.

• Predictability breeds trust: While predictability might seem to contradict random patrols, for some situations, a familiar routine can be reassuring.

Residents in a gated community or employees in an office building can take comfort in knowing security guards will be checking in at specific times.

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Emergency response

Some security situations require an immediate, decisive response. This is where emergency response comes in.

These specially-trained guards are strategically positioned throughout a property or designated as mobile units, ready to respond swiftly to security emergencies.

Emergency responses are ideal for high-risk properties (industrial facilities, hospitals) or situations requiring immediate action (active shooters, natural disasters).

They secure scenes, assess emergencies, and maintain order until authorities arrive.

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Their primary function is to:

• Secure the scene: Upon arrival at an emergency, these guards will act to secure the area, isolate the threat, and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

• Provide initial assessment: Emergency response patrols can conduct a preliminary assessment of the situation, gathering vital information for law enforcement or other emergency responders.

• Liaise with authorities: They can work closely with arriving police, firefighters, or medical personnel, providing crucial details and ensuring a smooth handover of the situation.

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Techniques and best practices for effective patrolling

Modern security goes beyond boots on the ground. Here's how to empower your guards with the right tools and techniques for effective patrolling.

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Using technology:

• GPS tracking: Monitor guard locations in real-time, ensuring thorough coverage and enabling faster response times.

• Body cameras: Increase transparency and accountability, deter criminal activity, and provide valuable video evidence during incidents.

• Mobile reporting apps: Streamline reporting by allowing guards to document observations and incidents online, improving accuracy and efficiency.

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Engaging with the public:

• Stay friendly: A guard's approachability can turn them into a community resource. Encourage guards to be polite and allow for open communication with employees, residents, or visitors. This fosters a sense of security and encourages cooperation.

• Eyes and ears on the ground: The public can be a valuable source of information. Train guards to ask casual questions and be receptive to concerns — they might hear rumors of planned activity or witness suspicious behavior before it escalates.

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Observation skills:

• Develop a baseline: Guards should become familiar with the "normal" on a property — regular traffic patterns, typical activity levels, and the usual occupants. Deviations from this baseline could indicate a potential threat.

• Focus on details: Train guards to be detail-oriented. Look for broken windows, unusual vehicles, or loitering individuals — seemingly minor details can be early warning signs of trouble.

• Maintain situational awareness: Guards should be constantly observing their surroundings, not just focused on a predetermined route.

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Encourage them to use all their senses — sight, sound, and even smell — to detect anything amiss.

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Benefits of security guard patrolling

Security guard patrols provide a powerful combination of benefits that extend far beyond just a watchful eye.

Let’s examine some of the advantages of implementing a strategic patrolling program to prevent crime and keep clients happy.

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Deterring crime

Patrolling guards are a powerful preventative measure that discourages crime before it happens.

Consistent, visible patrols act as a constant reminder that a watchful eye is on the property. This discourages criminals who rely on opportunity and a lack of security presence to target a location.

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Quick response

Patrols also ensure a swift response to incidents. Guards on the ground can react immediately to alarms, unusual activity, or emergencies.

This minimizes potential damage and loss by getting the situation under control quickly. Fast response also allows for efficient resolution.

Guards can secure the scene, gather initial information, and liaise with authorities or other personnel to ensure a swift and professional outcome.

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Customer assurance

Ultimately, security guard patrols contribute to a greater sense of security and peace of mind for everyone involved.

Employees working late nights in an office building, residents in a gated community, or customers at a shopping mall — all benefit from the visible presence of patrolling guards. It fosters a feeling of safety and allows people to go about their activities with a reduced fear of crime or disruption.

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Implementing a patrolling strategy for your business

Now that we’ve discussed the what and the why of security patrol, let’s talk about how.

We'll show you how to use data, specialized training, and technology to transform patrols into a powerful tool that deters crime, enhances client security, and ultimately, drives business growth.

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Here are three steps to follow:

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Step 1: Assess needs

Before deploying patrols, conduct a thorough evaluation of the client's property. This includes factors like size, layout, access points, high-value assets, and past security incidents.

Use this information to determine the most effective patrol type (fixed post, random, routine) and ideal frequency.

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Here’s a starter checklist:

• What is the size and layout of the property? (large open areas, multiple buildings, etc.)
• How many access points are there, and what security measures are in place? (fences, gates, security cameras)
• Does the property hold high-value assets? (inventory, data servers, expensive equipment)
• Has the client experienced any past security incidents? (theft, vandalism, trespassing)
• What are the client's specific security concerns? (employee safety, after-hours access control)

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Step 2: Training and development

Don't settle for generic security guard training. Invest in programs that equip your guards with the skills to excel in different patrolling scenarios. 

Here are some to consider:

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• De-escalation tactics: Random patrols often involve interaction with the public. Train guards on conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques.

• Access control procedures: Fixed post guards need a strong understanding of access control protocols and the ability to verify identification effectively.

• Emergency response protocols: All guards should be well-versed in emergency response procedures, including first aid, evacuation techniques, and communication with first responders.

• Technology integration: Ensure your guards are comfortable using patrol technology. Hold training sessions on GPS tracking, mobile reporting apps, etc. You can also develop clear guidelines on how to use this technology effectively during patrols.

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Step 3: Customization and adaptation

As your client's business grows or security needs evolve, be prepared to adapt your patrol strategy.

This could involve adding patrols during peak hours, incorporating mobile surveillance units, or integrating with the client's existing security systems.

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Here are some risk-based security customization options:

• High-risk: For properties like jewelry stores or banks, consider a combination of fixed post patrols for critical areas and frequent random patrols throughout the day. Guards with specialized training in access control and emergency response might be necessary.

• Medium-risk: Office buildings or shopping malls might benefit from a combination of routine patrols and random patrols during off-peak hours.

• Low-risk: Residential communities can be well-served by routine patrols focused on perimeter security and public safety checks.

Be prepared to adapt your patrols as your client's needs evolve. Discuss scalability options with clients upfront. This could involve adding patrols during peak hours or integrating with their existing security systems.

And finally, proactive communication is key. Regularly assess your client's security needs and suggest adjustments to the patrol strategy as needed.

You can use a security company software like Belfry to track patrol effectiveness and demonstrate value to your clients.

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Here are some examples:

• Average response time: How quickly do guards respond to alarms or incidents?
• Number of incident reports: Are patrols effectively deterring or identifying security issues?

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Next steps — Manage your security firm with Belfry

Security patrols are the backbone of on-site security, but they're only as effective as the systems that support them.

Inefficient scheduling, outdated reporting, and reactive decision-making can hinder your ability to deliver exceptional security services and scale your business.

Here's how Belfry helps you manage guard patrols:

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• Dynamic patrol planning: Easily adapt patrol strategies to fit unique client requirements. Integrate fixed posts, random patrols, and routine rounds for maximum effectiveness.
  
  
• Real-time visibility: Track guard location and activity in real-time, ensuring comprehensive coverage and enabling faster response times.
  
  
• Data-driven insights: Gain valuable insights into patrol effectiveness. Identify trends, optimize patrol schedules, and demonstrate value to your clients with clear reports.
  
  
• Empowered officers: Equip your guards with the tools they need to succeed. Our mobile app streamlines reporting, improves communication, and empowers them to act decisively in any situation.

Belfry streamlines operations, boosts efficiency, and empowers you to focus on what matters most: growing your business and exceeding client expectations.

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‍Schedule a Free Demo Today.