Training is coming up front and center in our current times with all the challenges it presents for security officers working for small to large companies, or private individuals. Training manuals, protocols and methodologies are being re-examined and updated. Some of this goes to looking at bedrock foundations as to exactly what is the appropriate role and authority of a security guard. This updating includes helpful responses to peaceful assemblies, civil rights, social justice and the latest in psychological and physical de-escalation techniques. Also included is the fact that police response times are increasing (meaning a slower response) and that social protest gatherings can come together very rapidly – as a result of social media interactivity.
Part of this review and rewrite of training is that security guards may get caught up in social demonstrations, be needed to respond in some fashion to protect client property and personnel. The all-important situation awareness for security personnel is now more critical than ever in light of the quick manifestation of protest assemblies and other situations of civic or ideological cause. Fires, traffic closures and other potential or real conflict outcomes are being injected into situational awareness for security officers and teams. The clients need to be informed of conditions so decisions can be made.
Security for property and personnel is a fluid process, and part of this training review – which WWPro is engaged in – now takes into account the mitigation response for different situations relating to peaceful crowds or individuals who are not demonstrating peacefully, and are present to instigate trouble.