Tactical security uses more advanced strategies like deploying armed guards and K-9 units, conducting surveillance operations, and establishing perimeter controls in high-risk situations and environments. 

Teams often use tools like smart CCTV cameras or technology like Belfry to make their operations more efficient.

In this article, we’ll learn more about: 

• What tactical security is
• Its key challenges
• How teams use technology for tactical strategies
• How Belfry can help

Let’s start by discussing tactical security.

‍

What is tactical security?

Tactical security guards are like the SWAT team of the security world — definitely not the type to be snoozing behind a desk. 

These guards often use specialized equipment like body armor, night vision goggles, radios and GPS devices, surveillance technology, and sometimes even firearms if their assignment calls for it. 

They also have more training than the usual guard, including use-of-force guidelines, threat assessment, de-escalation techniques, and specialized tactics to handle critical situations effectively.

‍

Where are tactical guards assigned?

They’re needed at high-risk areas like public events, corporate facilities, critical infrastructures, and any other place that faces higher threat levels than normal.

But in these locations, the physical presence of security guards alone isn’t enough — guards are just one part of the equation. 

Tactical security involves proactive, multi-level approaches to managing high-risk situations and addressing potential threats effectively. 

For example, managing crowds at a concert or securing a corporate facility against theft and corporate espionage requires a detailed understanding of risks. Teams can then plan proactively, establishing clear protocols for emergencies and deciding which security measures to implement.

‍

Key challenges of tactical security

Tactical security comes with unique difficulties that require a mix of decision-making, flexibility, and advanced tools. 

They face challenges like: 

• Coordination in real time: Effective tactical security relies on teams being able to communicate and respond immediately. At the same time, security plans need to remain flexible. Security software like Belfry helps firms manage deployments and ensure resources are allocated efficiently even in fast-changing environments.

• Accountability and documentation: Tactical security often means handling sensitive operations, where transparency is critical. Incident reporting helps to keep everyone informed and supports compliance requirements and audit needs.

• Tracking and tour confirmation: Patrols are an essential part of tactical security, but they need to be thorough. Tracking tools use geofencing and GPS to ensure that every area is covered and provide confirmation that teams haven’t overlooked anything.

‍

How to use technology for tactical security

Technology gives teams the tools they need to work more effectively. Of course, tactical teams will use the latest in weapons technology if the budget allows, but security management platforms like Belfry can serve as a central hub. 

They help your guards guard and free up your administration time to better grow your security business. 

Here are some key features to look out for:

• Scheduling: Guards can easily grab shifts and make changes as needed. Some offer automated scheduling with guards inputting free time and it automatically assigns a schedule based on preferences and security needs.

• Time and attendance tracking: Monitor hours worked to maintain efficiency and meet operational requirements without manual oversight.

• Tour confirmation: Verify patrols in real-time using GPS or other technologies, helping teams cover every critical area without gaps.

• Report filing: Collect detailed reports with images or video from a guard's phone immediately and securely, reducing delays and keeping records accurate.

• Time-saving automation: Automate repetitive processes like schedules, notifications, and report generation, freeing up time for strategic tasks.

• Data-driven insights: Use analytics to refine coverage, address weak points, and make better decisions about resource allocation.

‍

Advanced strategies for tactical security operations

We’ve established that tactical security guard service firms rely on advanced strategies to help teams stay ahead of potential threats and improve how they respond to evolving situations. But what exactly are those advanced strategies? 

Let’s take a look:

• Proactive risk assessment: Using data and analytics to spot risks before they escalate allows teams to take action early. Security software tools that track historical patterns and trends also provide valuable insights for identifying vulnerabilities and planning accordingly.

• Continuous training and feedback: Reports and analytics aren’t just for tracking incidents. They help uncover gaps in training and highlight areas where teams can improve. This feedback loop makes sure that personnel are always sharpening their skills and staying prepared.

• Team coordination: Centralized dashboards simplify communication and make it easier for teams to work together, even in complex or fast-changing scenarios. Coordination makes it possible for teams to continue working together even in the face of unexpected events and evolving threats.

‍

Future of tactical security: What should we expect?

It can be tough to prepare for the future of tactical security when it’s pretty much impossible to predict the future. However, security teams can still prepare for possible threats by using technology as a tool.

Just as threats evolve, so do technologies. Tactical security teams can use on-trend technologies to beef up their security operations. For example, firms can use AI-powered analytics with their smart CCTV camera systems to predict threats before they happen. They can also use facial recognition and other biometrics to learn identities, which helps in assessing any potential security risks.

Tactical firms can also continue adapting to future needs with scalable and modular solutions. Security management platforms like Belfry help teams streamline their security operations so they can allocate their resources more effectively.

‍

How Belfry supports tactical security

Tactical security is the next level of protection. You need it in higher-risk environments and the right tools can help give your security team the edge they need to respond effectively. This is where Belfry comes in.

Belfry is an all-in-one security management platform that enables you to keep an eye on your operations and act quickly when needed.

Here’s how:

• Reduce admin time: Belfry’s dashboard offers automated shift scheduling features that assign shifts based on site requirements, officer certifications, and training.

• Operational awareness: GPS tracking and geofencing capabilities let you see where your guards are so you can dispatch the closest units for faster incident response.

• Effective reporting: Belfry’s mobile app allows security guards to create incident reports on their phones so you can stay in the loop at all times. 

Stay prepared for high-risk environments. Explore Belfry’s features and schedule a free demo today.