By Guest Blogger Rayna Davies
Sometimes less really is more – while at the same time, strength can be found in numbers.
For security, both of these adages can ring true. Finding a balance is an integral part to any security plan.
This is why doing your research, conducting your advance and knowing all the threats and risks really play an integral part to protecting your client the best and most efficient way possible.
When a client comes forward and asks for security, of course money talks. They want to pay the least amount possible while security companies want to capitalize on the opportunities. Let’s take for example venue security. One could argue that security is needed at all points of entrance and exit. Add some security patrols both inside and outside. Multiple rooms? Add more security.
Now let’s say this venue is in an isolated area and your biggest potential risk is the odd bar fight between the locals. Having all of this security personnel is no doubt a huge overkill. It’s a waste of money to the proprietor and a waste of resources for the security company. Let’s also keep in mind that while the security company wants to justify the bill rate – they still have to pay their employees working for them. While they profit by increased numbers, they could be missing out on the opportunity for other jobs at the same time by using all their staff on one lower risk event.
Now let’s change direction. Let’s say this venue is in a high crime area. Multiple incidents are known to occur nightly, there are huge threats and risks associated with operating in this area. Now you’re going to want to look at amping up your plan – adding extra staff and resources. Do you need a body at every point of entrance/exit? Possibly. This might not be entirely unreasonable in this example.
Do you need people patrolling and someone stationed in each room? What kind of threats and risks occur here? More research may be required to not only do a threat and risk assessment – but to validate your placement of resources.
Different venues/events will require different resources. Not everything is the same and assessments are integral to planning and selling your company as a security provider.
Multiple factors need to be taken into account every single time and being informed is vital. Criminal history, current events, location and environment and current threat levels need to be taken into consideration. Also – who is in attendance? Your clientele also play a major role in planning. Are there threats or risks associated with the people that will be in attendance?
Is there one specific person that stands out? Maybe this person needs close protection themselves. 
Having the ability to differentiate and recognize the different levels and aspects of securities needed as well as being able to provide multiple facets is something that sets Sentinel apart from the average company. Being trained in advance preparation, property and Close Protection security can make all the difference in this industry and is something that Sentinel prides themselves on. Don’t just hope for the best when it comes to security and safety – expect it.
Guest Blogger Rayna Davies
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Rayna Davies is a graduate and practitioner of Business Management. She has developed an expertise in blogging, covering subjects like travel, world events and security. Having grown up with a father who has developed an expertise in Physical Security and Executive Protection in the RCMP and two major corporations, she has personally observed and experienced many security details. These experiences have included personally meeting HM Queen Elizabeth, Prime Minister Jean Chretien and many celebrities. She presently assists Sentinel Security in Executive Protection workshops and guest blogging and also assists Gloprosec Preventative Services in Intelligence gathering and Business Administration. Her passions include World travel, having visited every continent. She currently is on maternity leave and providing daily close protection for a baby and a toddler and spending time with her husband who is a Police Officer.
