Hiring Armed Guards: 3 Things to Check
If you feel that there may be a threat to your life or that you may be at risk of kidnapping or robbery because of your status, you may be considering hiring armed guards. However, before you do, so it is important that you check the following things.
The rules of engagement
When speaking with a personal security company which offers armed guards, it is important that you check that they have clear rules of engagement which their employees are trained to follow. It is important to remember that an armed guard is not a police officer or law enforcement agent and that they have the same rights as an everyday citizen. An armed guard must only use their firearm when there is a clear and present threat to their own or someone else's life. They cannot fire the weapon in an attempt to scare off an intruder, and they should not fire on someone who is retreating from them. If they do so, it can cause a lot of legal trouble as they may face charges of manslaughter or even murder.
The types of weapons used
Different states and territories have different laws regarding the types of firearms which can be legally carried. For example, a state may allow sidearms to be carried but may forbid the use of rifles or shotguns for security operations. There may also be restrictions on fully automatic weapons, if this is the case, the guards will need access to semi-automatic guns. Before you sign up with a company which provides armed guards, you should ask about the range of weapons used and the different situations in which they may be deployed.
The arrangements for international travel
If you plan to have an armed guard travel internationally to protect yourself or a valuable object, such as a consignment of gold, it is important that you check that the security company has a plan in place to facilitate this. No matter which country you plan to visit, it is highly likely that a permit will be required to allow the weapons to be imported and carried within the state. Airlines will also have strict regulations regarding the transportation of arms and ammunition. It is likely weapons will have to be stored in a secure box in the hold of the aircraft and the ammunition stored in the cabin.
If you would like further advice about hiring armed guards, you should contact a security company today.