Security Guards Are Not Just for Celebrities

Become an Armed Guard

29 July 2022 by Deann Collins

Actively performed armed guard duties will require clear and quick thinking and the proper use of a firearm. An armed guard has a lot of responsibilities to uphold, including monitoring a building and interacting with the public.

The Basic Requirements

An armed guard must be of age and must be able to pass a background test. A background test will require that an applicant is fingerprinted. Any prior convictions could have a bearing on an individual's ability to become an armed guard. An armed guard must be responsible and must pass a SLED background check. This check will determine if an applicant will be eligible for a training course.

The Training Course

Being licensed is a requirement that a business owner will outline when they are seeking an armed guard. The training that an armed guard applicant must complete is more extensive than the training that an unarmed guard applicant must complete. The training will require that a set amount of classroom hours of study are successfully completed. Additionally, an applicant will need to participate in a firearms safety and usage training course.

First, an applicant will be provided with a course syllabus. The syllabus will outline each phase of the training process. The classroom sessions may be conducted first. An instructor will go over the basics of being an armed guard. They may discuss various incidents that would require a guard to intercede. They may also go over some of the surveillance equipment types that an employer may require a guard to use.

An armed guard can conduct services on foot or by vehicle. An employer may have their own requirements that they will outline for someone who applies for a job. A guard must be flexible and willing to work as a team member. Upon completing the classroom portion of the training, an applicant will need to take a written test. Once they pass the test, they will conduct some field firearm training with a licensed armed guard trainer.

An armed guard is typically required to carry a handgun. This gun will be secured to their body during each shift that they perform services as a licensed guard. A trainer will discuss gun safety requirements. They will teach a student how to load and aim a gun. They will also discuss the importance of maintaining the condition of a gun. An armed guard's duty is to provide protection—a firearm should only be dispatched if it is absolutely necessary.

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