How to Conduct Effective Security Patrols | Best Security Practices in Canada
Oct. 21, 2024, 8 p.m.
Security patrols are completely necessary within any premises, be it a shopping mall or corporate offices. Regular and effective patrols stop criminal activity, outline possible risks, and ensure quick response to emergencies. At Safeguard Security, we have experience in providing bespoke security patrol services in major Canadian cities such as Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, and Vancouver.
1. Clearly Defined Patrol Objectives
Deterrence security patrols must have definite objectives. These can be things such as the prevention of theft, supervising restricted areas, checking for hazards, or enforcing policies. With defined objectives, security personnel will know which places they should look at in terms of high-risk areas and react in advance.
2. Planned Patrol Route
A planned route eliminates blind spots and covers all areas of the property. It is also important at times to change the route for patrol to ensure that predictability, which a wrongdoer might take advantage of, is broken. A combination of routine and unpredictable patrols keeps would-be criminals on their toes.
3. Technology and Equipment
Good patrol operations do not only mean presence. The security forces must be given the current technologies, such as GPS tracking systems, communication equipment, and CCTV monitoring systems. These improve visibility and the response of the security officers to incidents is faster and productive. At Safeguard Security, we make use of advanced surveillance systems as complements to our patrols.
4. Vigilance and Observation
There is a requirement for those patrols to be efficient only when the officer on security is alert. An officer must be observant of details, which include strange behavior, signs of forced entry, or security equipment that malfunctions. Continuous awareness and watchful eyes over changes in the environment prevent incidents from occurring.
5. Regular Communication and Reporting on Findings
Communication in security patrols must be strong and constant. Guards must check regularly with a supervisor and inform the supervisor of any suspicious activities or breaches in security. Thorough post-patrol reports ensure that any issues are documented, monitored, and solved promptly. This is the channel through which constant improvement and adjustment of security procedures take place.
6. Perform Risk Assessments
An efficient patrol is not only identification of risk but also hazard identification. The security officers should assess the environment constantly to foresee potential threats like poor lighting, dysfunctional equipment, or unlocked doors. Regular risk assessment reduces vulnerabilities.
7. Train and Prepare for Emergencies
Preparedness is the key to handling emergency situations. Security personnel have to be trained for a myriad of scenarios, from medical emergencies to how to extinguish fires and evacuate any premises. Drill sessions and continuous training are necessary to ensure that patrol officers are capable of responding promptly and properly to any crisis.

