13 Items Every Security Officer Should Carry.

Security Officers work in a wide variety of places, some of these places include public and private buildings, industrial facilities, and critical infrastructure sectors. Security Officers are also exposed to a variety of weather conditions, and hazardous work conditions such as extreme heat/cold, loud noises or hazardous chemicals. They also perform different security related tasks as defined by the sector in which they are employed. The nature of a security officer’s job requires them to perform various tasks and be exposed to adverse work conditions. Therefore, officers need equipment and tools to safely and effectively perform their job. Here is my list of 13 items every security officer should carry.

1. Equipment Bag:

   

   I know, this seems like a standard item, but I have seen officers arrive for shift carrying everything they need in plastic grocery bag that is about to fall apart. In the world of security perception is reality and security officers are often the first and last individuals visitors interact with at an organization. The image an officer projects reflects directly on their employer and/or client. Security Officer should project a professional but approachable image to the individuals they interact with in the performance of their duties. I would recommend investing in an equipment bag because it looks professional and you can carry all your needed items in it. I recommend sticking with solid colors such as black, dark blue or dark brown, and stay away from bags with flashy colors or bags with designs on them.

 

2. Storage Clipboard w/Forms: With the use of technology and IoT in security programs, it is common for security officers to use technology to document daily duties and events. However, technology can fail but security does not stop in the event of a failure. Therefore, it is important to have a backup plan when a failure event happens. Officers should carry hard copies of required forms and documents used in daily duties. Security officers might also find out their organization or client still have the security force use hard copy forms to document security duties and events. A storage clipboard allows the officer to carry required forms and document in an organized manner, and it gives them a writing surface in the event one is not available.

 

3. Flashlight w/ Extra Batteries or USB charger:During the course of an officer’s duties it is highly likely they will encounter low light situations where a flashlight is needed. Besides being useful in low light conditions they are also useful when conducting various types of searches at entry control points and other location within their area of responsibility. Flashlights come in a variety of brightness, power supplies and price points. Some security officers carry a standard Maglight because it is bright and durable. I always found the larger Maglights cumbersome so I carry a smaller LED light that can easily fit in my pocket or on a belt. Always carry extra batteries for your flashlight (AAA, AA, Lithium or USB charger & Power Bank).

 

4. Writing Utensils:One of the main responsibilities of a security officer is to observe and report. Therefore, it is important for them to take accurate notes and in order to accomplish this they must have a writing utensil. I recommend having a pen that is black or blue ink, a pencil with eraser, a sharpie, and a yellow highlighter. The pen is the officer’s primary writing utensil but if their paper is exposed to moisture it could hinder the effectiveness of the pen thus the need for a pencil. The sharpie can be used for a variety of purposes and is a good item to have on hand. The highlighter can be used to highlight portions of documents or maps that are important.

 

5. Notepads: Officers need to be able to record their notes taken during the shift or during a security incident so having a notepad is highly important. Officers should carry a standard legal pad which can be stored in their clipboard, and a pocket-size memo pad which is kept on their person. The standard legal pad can be used to create task lists, taking statements, drawing diagrams, or creating access control logs. Pocket size memo pads can be used when the officer is unable to carry their clipboard or they need to record some quick notes. For the pocket-size memo pads I use Rite in the Rain (Field Interview Notebooks or Standard Notebooks), but these can be kind of pricey. If these memo pads are not in your price range standard pocket-size memo pads will work just fine.

 

Note: Any notes an officer takes during the course of their duties could be subpoenaed or the officer might have to use their notes during judicial proceedings. Therefore, it is important the notepads are used for work purposes only and notes are in chronological order.

 

6. Reflective Vest: During the course of an officer’s duties they may have to direct traffic or handle a safety issue. A reflective vest can be worn by the officer in order to be highly visible as they perform traffic control or handle safety issues. Reflective vests are also used in low light conditions to ensure the officers are seen by vehicles that might be operating in the area. Before purchasing a vest make sure you are aware of any company or client requirements concerning the use of reflective vest.

 

7. Eye & Hearing Protection: Officers are exposed to a variety of conditions that could cause damage to their eyes or hearing. This is why it is important to wear proper eye and hearing protection when needed. When I worked as a security officer in South Florida we were exposed to loud noises from Airport, and with all the landscaping going on it was common for debris to be flying around the guard-house. Eye and hearing protection was a must. Eye protection comes in a variety of lenses and styles, and some even come with tinted lenses/UV rated. These type can double as sunglasses and eye protection. Hearing protection can come in the standard foam ear plugs or earmuffs styles. 

 

 

 

8. Gloves: Searching people, places and things is a common duty for a security officer, and it is important for the officer to protect their hands while perform these daily task. During a shift the officer might check hundreds of doors, identification card, locks, and bags and gloves not only protect their hands but minimizes their exposure to germs or blood borne pathogens. A good pair of gloves with leather palms is a good item to carry with you in your bag.

 

9. Watch: Part of good note taking is being able to annotate the approximate time and date of an incident. Wearing a watch that keeps good time can assist you in annotating accurate time of an incident. Yes, you have a phone that can give you the time, date, weather and even your location but remember technology can fail. A watch is a backup solution.

 

 

10. First Aid Kit w/ CPR Mask: Security officers might be required to obtain a CPR and First Aid certifications. In the event they have to render CPR or First Aid they will need to have the proper equipment available and ready for use. Carrying a First Aid Kit ensures the officer can employ First Aid with the proper equipment. When performing CPR it is always a good idea to use a face shield or CPR Mask. Security officers should also carry additional nitrile gloves in their kit.

 

 

11. Cell phone/Smartphone w/ Charger:
    A cell phone is a must have for security officers so they can rapidly communicate during an emergency from anywhere. Smartphones in particular can be used to do research, obtain maps and weather of the security officer’s area. Many companies and clients provide a post cell phone or officers are required to use their own cell phones and their company reimburses them. It is my recommendation officers have a separate cell phone for work purposes only, if they can afford it. A Tracfone or any other inexpensive prepaid service can work, provided it has reliable service for the area the officer will be working. The officer should always carry their cell phone’s charger with them so low batteries can be charged.

 

Note: Any calls, texts, or pictures an officer takes during the course of their duties could be subpoenaed. Therefore, it is important cell phones are used for work purposes only.

 

12. Power Bank w/ cables: Cell phones, tablets, smart watches and some flashlights have an internal battery that need to be charged to maintain proper functionality. However, there may be times when an officer cannot get to an outlet to plug the device in to a wall charger or vehicle charger. Thus as power bank is a great addition to an officer’s everyday equipment. 

 

 

13. Hydration & Snacks: Officers are exposed to long hours in different types of weather and perform  lots of standing, walking and/or sitting. In order to stay awake, remain alert, and maintain proper energy levels to perform task it is important for officers to stay hydrated and eat while on duty. Yes, coffee, energy drinks and no doz can assist with this but it is not good to always rely on these products. Drinking water and having some of favorite snacks on hand can assist an officer in maintaining energy levels and alertness. Along with my lunch I always carry different types of nuts, granola, jerky or gummy bears. These items give me a pick me up when I am working an overnight shift and feel tired. I also carry a water bottle filled with water and a thermos with my favorite coffee or tea.

 

There are some items that were not covered in this post such as less than lethal items, handcuffs, knives and multi tools. This is because use of force, training requirements, and company policies and procedures differ from location to location. While all of these items are useful, ensure you always obtain proper training, licensing and permission before adding them to your equipment bag. I also did not cover inclement weather gear because many organizations issue their guard force these items, but if not make sure you dress appropriately for the weather or season you will be performing security duties. Lastly, ensure you are always carrying all required licenses and documents as directed by your employer, client and state.

I would love to hear what items you carry every day to aid you in the performance of your duties. Please leave a comment below!