How Schools Can Improve Their Security Measures

Posted January 11, 2021 by barton_secure & filed under School Security.

Schools can and should improve security measures. No parent wants to find out their kid suffered from a gunshot wound at school. Sadly, we live in an era where gun violence is all too common in schools. But we also have technology and manpower to ramp up security, so all hope is not lost.

Proactive Data Collection

For instance, technology today can collect data that can then be used by law enforcement to better understand situations and incidents going on in schools. Perhaps a kid posts a bomb threat on Facebook or Twitter… things like that can be traced. Ideally, someone’s watching out for stuff like this and can alert authorities before any bad things happen.

Smart Measures to Take

Meanwhile, schools can enhance security measures in a number of ways. For instance, they can reduce the number of ports of entry for the building. Have only one way in and out open during the school day, rather than multiple doors. Also, train staff to require identification/passes for all school visitors, including parents. Hold training classes for staff, administrators, and teachers on topics like threat assessment, crime prevention and emergency planning best practices. Do more drills to practice for the “what ifs.”

Trust in Security Professionals

Anything that can be done to improve communication between students, teachers, parents and administrators is a good thing. From social media to websites, phone trees to flyers, there are many ways to share news these days. Dialogue is good. That way a school reduces the amount of “surprises” they have to deal with… Rather than be ignorant of things going on, all people connected with a school should be informed. Finally, schools should consider hiring security guards who can help make people feel safer. C.O.P. Security of Rochester, NY, provides guards for schools in Western and Central New York. Please call 585-750-5608 for more information or use the contact page here.

How to Hire the Right Private Security Company in Western New York

Posted December 16, 2020 by barton_secure & filed under Miscellaneous, Security Guards, Security Services.

Are you thinking of hiring a private security company? If so, what are some things you should keep in mind?

For starters, legitimate security companies are licensed. In New York State, for instance, requirements to be a licensed “Watch, Guard or Patrol Agency” include:

• You must be 25 years of age, a principal in the business and have passed the examination within the last two years.

• You must be free of disqualifying criminal convictions.

• You must demonstrate either two years’ experience or two years’ equivalent position and experience. Experience is defined as two years of full-time security experience, such as sheriff, police officer, or security guard in a governmental agency or with a licensed private investigator or WGP agency. “Equivalent experience” is defined as two years in a position where the primary duties were the performance of security guard services or two years’ experience reviewing and supervising the work of at least three persons performing security services.

• All applicants must be fingerprinted.

When you’re looking to hire a licensed private security company, sometimes working with a smaller company is good because your property is their priority. Don’t be afraid to screen guards before they work on your property to ensure that they’re physically and mentally fit to do the job and meet your specific needs. You can also ask for proof of insurance– it’s best to work with a company that’s properly insured.

Other considerations include whether or not guards have advanced training, problem solving skills, a range of specialties, poor versus excellent communication, and how professional/friendly their demeanor is. It’s always a good idea to check with different types of businesses who’ve used a company’s services before and get their opinions on whether or not they were satisfied with the company overall.

In Western and Central New York State, call C.O.P. Security for your private security needs. The number is 585-750-5608.

Is It Better To Hire Armed Security Guards Or Unarmed Ones?

Posted October 28, 2020 by barton_secure & filed under Armed Guards, Unarmed Guards.

So you’ve been thinking about hiring a security guard or team of guards for your business in Western New York. Do you need armed guards or unarmed guards?

The Times for Armed Guards

Armed guards carry firearms at all times and can use them when needed. After all, they’ve been trained and licensed to use their firearms. Notably, depending on your needs, you can have armed guards openly carrying their firearm to serve as an extra deterrent, or they can carry concealed if you want to avoid alarming your patrons.

With that in mind, when might a business want armed guards on their property?

Generally, if a place is known to be in a high-crime area– known for violence, fights and problems, then it makes sense to hire armed guards. Also, if money or valuables need protection, armed guards are a must!

Thieves love to try and steal expensive jewelry and artwork, as well as cash. It’s no wonder, then, that jewelry stores, art galleries and banks generally hire armed guards.

The Times for Unarmed Guards

What about unarmed guards? This is the right choice for the majority of businesses. Unarmed guards will save you money because they don’t make as much money as armed guards and aren’t as expensive to insure.

Since unarmed guards will not potentially have to use a firearm on your property (and cause injury or death), you don’t need to worry about being financially responsible for such a debacle. Unarmed guards generally receive training on how to deter criminals in non-lethal ways. Furthermore, they act as the connection between your business and the police. Unarmed guards can get in touch with law enforcement officers quickly when they need to!

Still not sure if you want to hire armed or unarmed security guards? That’s fine– call C.O.P. Security and discuss your specific needs and concerns with us. Our number is 585-750-5608 and we serve parts of Western and Central New York State. In business since 1987, C.O.P. Security is ready to help you figure out whether or not you should hire armed (or unarmed) guards.

Reasons to Invest in Security Services During the Pandemic

Posted October 9, 2020 by jbarton_secure & filed under Miscellaneous, Security Guards.

Turn on the news and you’ll probably want to turn it off. Lately, it has just been bad news, all day every day, it seems. Of course there’s the coronavirus pandemic, which has plagued America (and the world) for much of 2020. It has caused people to not be in their right minds. You probably know some people who barely leave their house ; well, they do not want to get sick and you can’t blame them. Covid-19 has the potential to to be fatal.

Meanwhile, if you watch the news you’ll notice civil unrest in places like Minneapolis, Seattle, Portland, Louisville and Rochester, among other cities. People are taking to the streets and rioting and looting. It’s a scary time to be alive in many places– even places where people previously felt “safe.”

During this pandemic era, you should invest in security services. Now, more than ever, businesses and organizations need to be on guard because society has undergone such massive changes in a short period of time. What used to be good is bad and what used to be bad is good. And “the rules” change almost daily. People are confused, fatigued, out of work, depressed, angry and a whole host of negative emotions… And they’re restless. That’s exactly why you need to think about investing in security services if you care about your business, organization, place and people.

Do you want your place to be robbed or looted? Do you want it burned down? No. Therefore you need vigilant security that keeps watch on what you own at all times. And if people are involved– and they usually are– you’ll want them to feel as safe and guarded as possible, especially during a time where people are wearing masks and acting out of sorts, for better or worse.

Do you need security guards who are sensitive to handling people, things and situations during a pandemic? Call C.O.P. Security at 585-750-5608 or email rbarton@copsecuritycorp.com. C.O.P. Security offers foot patrols, vehicle patrols, armed/unarmed guards and/or special event security services.

Should You Use a Security Guard to Check Employee Temperatures?

Posted August 29, 2020 by barton_secure & filed under Security Guards.

COVID-19 has changed the way businesses and organizations operate on a daily basis. It’s not unusual for people coming into a building or office to have a “temperature check.” This usually involves a person holding what looks like a little gun (an infrared device) to a person’s forehead and then pressing a button to get a digital readout of that person’s temperature. By doing this, they can see whether or not the person has a fever. If they do, they should not be there! If they don’t, they’re “safe” to come into the building or office.

Temperature Checks Can Help Control the Spread of Disease in Workplace

While temperature checks may be an imperfect measure, they’re one of the tools companies use these days to help prevent and control the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace.

Besides temperature checks, some measures include asking people if they have any symptoms of COVID-19 (such as coughing, shortness of breath) or if they’ve recently travelled to a high-risk area recently.

Most companies have scrambled to find someone to take people’s temperatures and ask them questions/fill out forms. Is this a duty to give to an office assistant? What about asking a security guard to do this?

COP Security has security guards you can hire to handle your company or organization’s temperature checks and COVID-19 questionnaires. Our professionals can literally watch the door to make sure no one gets into your place who shouldn’t be there, including a person who may have COVID-19.

With training, personal protective equipment, a no-touch thermometer, and an understanding of confidentiality considerations, security guards can take people’s temperatures and help ensure a safe workplace.

These days you can’t be “too safe.” People are nervous and worried about the spread of COVID-19. What is your company or organization doing to protect people from harm?

Need someone to take temperature checks where you work? Call COP Security at 585-750-5608.

The Advantages of Hiring a Private Security Guard During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Posted July 24, 2020 by barton_secure & filed under Miscellaneous, Security Guards.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a slew of challenges for businesses as they adjust to their “new normal.’’ In addition to making sure their employees and customers are able to stay safe and healthy, there are also new security challenges for companies to figure out.

With everyone seemingly tedious from the pandemic, tensions are at an all time high, and we can see how that has affected businesses at their workplaces. It seems like every day there is a new video circulating of an angry customer screaming at employees or other patrons, and scaring everyone in the store or restaurant with their anger. It puts employees in an awkward predicament; they are there to provide great customer service and aren’t really trained to handle escalating situations and disputes.

That’s where having a security presence can come in handy. A uniformed security guard can act as an objective enforcer of the rules, and remove your employees from awkward situations. He or she can make sure that customers are wearing a mask if that’s a rule and that they remain socially distant. Should things escalate, he or she has the experience and training to calm a situation down, and prevent an incident from spiraling out of control and going ‘’viral.’’

What’s more, in the event you’re limiting the amount of occupants allowed to enter your building, a professional security guard can make sure you don’t go over your occupancy and that all local and state laws are complied for.

Perhaps above all else, during these uncertain times a security guard provides employers, employees and customers with peace of mind and reassurances that this is a safe place to be.

If you’re looking for reliable security guards in Monroe, Orleans or Erie County, learn how COP Security can help.

C.O.P. Security Is Here to Help You With Your Security Needs

Posted June 1, 2020 by barton_secure & filed under Miscellaneous, Security Services.

Since approximately early March of 2020, the world as we know it has drastically changed. The COVID-19 pandemic has tragically cost over 100,000 Americans their lives, and sadly, that number will continue to increase.

In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned what had been a strong economy to one in which we find ourselves with over 40 million unemployed Americans, as businesses throughout New York State and America wait for the green light to open and serve their customers and clients once again. Regrettably, the interruption has forced many businesses to make the difficult decision to close permanently.

C.O.P. Security Is Here to Help

There has also been myriad other issues over the past few months that have affected our country’s core. As we all look towards the future and begin the process of picking up the pieces and rebuilding our country’s economy, we want to let you know that C.O.P. Security is here for you if you need us. We’re sure you’ve heard that many times from countless businesses since March, but at C.O.P. Security, we truly prioritize working closely with our clients, listen intently to their situations and provide the best security solutions for their needs. In fact, if we cannot help you with your security needs, we’ll still point you in the right direction and find you the help you need.

We offer a wide range of security services in the Rochester, NY area, including in Monroe County, Genesee County and Orleans County . To learn more about our services or to discuss your specific needs, contact us today.

Here’s Why You Should Hire a Security Guard From an Outside Company

Posted March 12, 2020 by barton_secure & filed under Security Guards, Security Services.

So you own and/or run a business. And you want to keep it safe and secure from any threats, including theft. What can you do? You can hire a security guard from an outside company. Why do that, as opposed to hiring someone “in-house?”

Superior Training

It’s a good idea to hire a security guard from an outside company for a number of reasons. For example, most security companies offer top-notch training so their guards are prepared for anything! What’s more, these companies have protocols in place should something go amiss.

Professionalism

Security guard companies usually have uniforms for their guards which give them a professional appearance and communicate to the world that they’re serious about their job and came to work– not to just goof off and look at their phones all shift. Moreover, when a company is focused on providing security, and that’s their main focus, a business owner/manager can feel good about them, knowing they’re dedicated to helping them stay safe– they’re not distracted with other things, as safety and security are their highest priorities.

Usage of Technology

Today, most security guards utilize technology to their– and your–advantage. For instance, they can use cameras and footage to “be in several places at once.”

Peace of Mind

Hiring a security guard from an outside company will help give business owners, managers, employees and visitors a greater sense of safety as well as peace of mind. And unlike individual hires, utilizing a company means there are multiple guards to choose from, for different shifts too… Imagine only having one “in-house” security guy– what if he or she has a scheduling conflict? Then there’s no security on duty for hours, days, weeks or more? At least with an outside company there’s a pool of guards to choose from!

In Rochester, NY, and the surrounding region, you can hire a security guard from C.O.P. Security Inc. to guard your business or other entity. Please call 585-750-5608 for more info or email rbarton@copsecuritycorp.com.

Private Security vs. Police Law Enforcement

Posted January 20, 2020 by barton_secure & filed under Miscellaneous, Security Guards.

There’s police law enforcement and there’s private security. What should you understand about the two?

Private Security

Here’s something interesting: private security officers have more authority than police law enforcement officers when they’re patrolling the private property they’re contracted to protect. In essence, private security is representing the property owner. Police represent their municipality/government and because they’re connected to the government, they have to follow several guidelines set forth by the Constitution.

Speaking of the Constitution, law enforcement officers cannot stop anyone to ask “Do you live on this property?” or “What are you doing on this property?” Doing so would be a violation of the person’s Constitutional rights. They’re only allowed to speak to someone on private property if they have a reasonable suspicion that there’s a crime involved. Private security can interact with anyone about anything on private property.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement officers typically work in what’s known as the “criminal realm.” They’re more likely to deal with crime than civil matters. Private security, on the other hand, typically deals with civil matters, such as property owner rights, lease agreements, etc. Law enforcement officers have to be strict and sensitive to any legal ramifications their actions might entail. They’re going to avoid anything that gets them entangled in legal issues and/or civil suits.

Finally, many people wonder this: “Can private security arrest people?” Yes. They can arrest for any City, County, State, or Federal law violation in their presence, just like police can.

C.O.P. Security of Rochester, NY, offers customer focused private security guards for a number of venues and events, including businesses, schools, government offices, residential areas and more. For more info, please call C.O.P. Security at 585-750-5608 or email rbarton@copsecuritycorp.com.

What Does an Access Control Security Guard Do?

Posted November 7, 2019 by barton_secure & filed under Security Services.

What does an access control security guard do? He or she essentially controls access and egress to a facility or area. That way, only authorized personnel, vehicles and materials are allowed to enter, move within, and/or leave the facility/area.

Specifically, access control guards utilize a four-step process: detect, deter, observe and report. It’s a tried-and-true method.

Detect

Detection involves looking for and noticing any potential criminal activity, ideally before there’s a problem and/or crime committed. Guards will watch who/what is coming around their area and figure out whether they’re friend or foe. Guards always look for suspicious people or activity. They’re also trained to notice if/when emergency situations are taking place.

Deter

What do guards deter? They typically deter crime with their very presence. After all, criminals don’t like to be around security guards. Criminals look for unguarded places to do their crimes. Uniformed guards can deter criminals just by wearing their uniforms, making their physical presence known. Of course they can also use their voices to talk with suspicious people, too.

Observe

Observation is a key duty of an access control security guard. He or she observes people and property. Furthermore, the guard should be on the lookout for any out-of-the-ordinary incidents and/or emergencies. Typically, a guard will patrol the premises, checking to make sure things are in order. He or she might also be responsible for checking people in/out of an area, often looking inside visitors’ bags for weapons, too.

Report

Finally, there’s the report aspect of a guard’s job. If there’s a potential criminal act about to take place, one has occurred, and/or there’s an emergency situation, then a guard needs to report what’s going on to higher authorities such as police and/or their clients. Guards are often called upon to write up a report of what they observed, providing specific details about the incident.

Do you need dependable, professional security in the Rochester area? C.O.P. Security offers a variety of service options, including guards who do foot patrols, guards who are armed or unarmed, corporate security, reception service and more. For more information, please call C.O.P. Security at 585-750-5608 or email rbarton@copsecuritycorp.com.