Who Keeps Security Guards Safe?

The Need for Adequate Protection

Who keeps the security guards safe? In many cases, security guards lack the same protections as the people they are tasked with safeguarding. They serve as the first line of defense against intruders and provide assistance during medical emergencies. Unfortunately, when violence erupts, weapons like knives and guns can be deadly for unarmed security personnel. It’s easy to joke about the unarmed guard equipped with bells and whistles strapped to his belt. However, it's essential to consider: what actual tools do security guards have to protect themselves?

The Right to Defend

By New York State law, a security guard is merely a citizen licensed to perform security work for private entities. Citizens have the inherent right to protect themselves, and thus, security guards should have the same rights. This concept aligns with Penal Law 35.30. Notably, this law does not specifically state that a guard may use a weapon to defend themselves. Unfortunately, only armed guards are permitted to respond with lethal force, which raises the question: what’s the solution for unarmed security guards?

Enhanced Protection with Vests

One potential solution is for unarmed guards to wear bulletproof vests. In March of 2025, a security guard and bouncer was shot in a bar. You can read more about it here. If he had been wearing a bulletproof vest, his chances of survival would have been significantly increased. This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for enhanced safety measures within the security industry.

The Reality of Being Unarmed

Unarmed security guards often find themselves in precarious situations. They are responsible for managing threats but are limited in their ability to protect themselves. Many people argue that security guards are not just responsible for the safety of others; they also deserve to feel secure while doing their jobs. This raises an important question: should unarmed security guards be allowed to wear vests and other protective gear?

Understanding the Risks

The risks associated with being an unarmed security guard are substantial. Every day, they encounter various threats, ranging from theft to potential violence. The absence of adequate protective gear increases their vulnerability. In essence, they are tasked with ensuring the safety of others but lack the tools to guarantee their own safety.

Comparing Tools for Self-Defense

When examining the tools available for self-defense, it’s important to note that everyday citizens often carry non-lethal weapons like tasers and pepper spray. This is a stark contrast to the limited resources available to unarmed security guards. The conversation around self-defense options for guards needs to evolve. Just as ordinary citizens have access to various forms of self-protection, so too should security personnel.

Public Perception and Support

The perception of security guards can sometimes undermine their importance. Many see them as merely a presence without realizing the risks they face daily. Public support for providing security guards with necessary protection, such as bulletproof vests, could change this perception. It would reinforce the idea that their safety matters too and that they play a crucial role in maintaining public order.

Educating Security Personnel

Another crucial aspect of this discussion is education. Security guards need training not only in tactics but also in safety measures. Education on how to handle potentially violent situations can equip them with knowledge, not just tools. This training can help them understand when to call for help, how to de-escalate a situation, and when protective gear would be most beneficial.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

In conclusion, the need for adequate protection for security guards is glaring and cannot be overlooked. Just as individuals have the right to carry weapons for self-defense, security guards should be allowed to protect themselves effectively. The solution lies in enabling unarmed guards to wear bulletproof vests and providing them the training they need. Let's advocate for a system that values the safety of everyone, including those who protect us.