Armed Security: What Industries Need Them and Why

AAA Security Guard Services
5 min readJun 7, 2024

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You’re headed to work, coffee in hand, when you notice something different. There’s an armed guard stationed at the entrance. He nods as you walk by, and you wonder — is my workplace dangerous? Do we really need armed security here? It’s a fair question. Plenty of businesses rely on armed guards for protection, but it’s not always clear why. In this article, we’ll explore what industries typically employ armed security and examine the reasons behind it. We’ll look at the pros and cons, costs, and alternatives. And we’ll help you understand if your company actually needs weapons on site or if other options could work just as well. Armed guards are serious business, so let’s dig into the details and see what’s best for your workplace.

Industries That Require Armed Security Guards

Financial Institutions

Banks, credit unions, and cash-handling businesses are prime targets for theft, so armed security is essential. Guards monitor the premises, escort cash transfers, and deter would-be robbers. With money and people’s livelihoods at stake, firearms are necessary for protection.

Government Facilities

Federal buildings, courthouses, and military bases frequently employ armed security. Guards control access, monitor surveillance systems, and protect sensitive data and operations. Lethal force may be required in some situations, so proper training and certification in firearms are mandatory.

Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals, clinics, and medical research labs often need armed security, especially for controlled substances. Guards prevent theft of drugs, secure entry and exit points, and may use force to stop violence. Patients, staff, and lifesaving medicines must be protected, warranting the use of firearms by properly trained professionals.

Transportation Hubs

Airports, seaports, train stations, and logistic centers are high-risk, high-traffic areas requiring armed security. Guards screen passengers, monitor crowds, protect infrastructure, and thwart terrorist attacks. With many lives at stake in a confined space, armed security is essential for safety. Proper training helps guards respond to emergencies and use weapons judiciously.

Private Residences

Wealthy homeowners frequently hire armed security for their estates. Guards patrol the grounds, monitor surveillance systems, and protect property and inhabitants from intruders. Firearms are necessary to deter criminals who may also be armed. Rigorous training, certification, and oversight help ensure weapons are used properly in these private settings.

Why These Industries Rely on Armed Security

If you run a business that deals in high-value goods or sensitive information, armed security should be a top priority. Some key industries that rely heavily on armed guards include:

Banking and finance

Banks and financial institutions are obvious targets for theft and fraud. Armed security deters criminals looking to rob vaults or steal account information. Guards also protect customers, employees and money transports.

Government facilities

Places like courthouses, embassies and military bases contain sensitive data and technology. Armed security is essential for controlling access and monitoring for threats. Guards defend against unauthorized access and violence that could compromise national security.

Retail businesses

Jewelry stores, art galleries and luxury retailers require armed security to protect their valuable and easily stolen inventory. Armed guards prevent smash-and-grab robberies and deter organized retail crime rings looking to steal and resell high-priced goods.

Critical infrastructure

Power plants, water treatment facilities, and telecommunications hubs are vulnerable to attacks that could disrupt essential services. Armed security protects these sites from threats like terrorism, activism- turned-violent and cyber crimes that lead to physical tampering. Guards help maintain continuity of service for communities.

In today’s world, armed security is a necessity for any business storing valuable or sensitive assets. Guards act as a visible deterrent against criminal plans and help prevent catastrophic events through close monitoring of risks. For key industries and critical infrastructure, armed protection is an investment in safety, stability and business continuity.

FAQs About Hiring Armed Security Guards

How much do armed security guards cost?

The average cost for armed security guard services in the U.S. ranges from $20 to $50 per hour. Exact rates will depend on factors like:

  • The guard’s experience and certifications. More experienced guards with additional credentials typically charge higher rates.
  • The specific duties and risks involved. Guarding high-value items or dangerous areas often warrants a premium rate.
  • The number of guards needed and hours of coverage. More guards and longer shifts will increase the overall cost.

What type of businesses require armed security guards?

Many businesses require the services of armed security guards to protect people, property, and assets. Some of the top industries that employ armed guards include:

  • Banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions. Armed guards help deter bank robberies and other crimes.
  • Retail businesses, especially those that sell high-value merchandise. Armed guards prevent shoplifting and theft.
  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities. Armed guards maintain order and security for staff and visitors.
  • Transportation and logistics companies. Armed escorts protect valuable cargo, cash, and equipment during transit.

What are the requirements to become an armed security guard?

To work as an armed security guard, you must meet the following basic requirements:

  • Be at least 21 years of age. Some states require guards to be older.
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Complete state-required training and licensure. This typically involves firearms training, self-defense, and legal education.
  • Pass a background check and drug screening. Felony convictions or drug abuse issues will disqualify candidates.
  • Maintain all required licenses and permits. These must be renewed periodically, often every 2 years.

With the proper training and credentials, armed security guards play an important role in protecting people and property. But their services do come at a cost, which is an important consideration for any organization.

Contact AAA Security Guard Services Today

If your business handles valuable goods or information, armed security may be necessary to protect your assets and ensure the safety of your employees and customers. AAA Security Guard Services provides professional, licensed armed guards to deter criminal behavior and respond in emergency situations.

Our armed guards are extensively trained and vetted to handle firearms responsibly and ensure the highest level of protection. They vigilantly monitor your property for signs of intrusion or threats and are equipped to immediately neutralize dangerous situations. Armed security is ideal for industries like:

  • Banks and financial institutions that handle cash and sensitive customer data.
  • Retail locations with high-value merchandise that is a target for theft.
  • Research facilities that develop proprietary technology, software, or intellectual property.

Don’t leave your business and employees vulnerable. AAA Security Guard Services offers customized armed security solutions to fit your needs and budget. Our guards are professionally trained and licensed to operate in your state. For your convenience, we handle all necessary licensing and insurance to legally provide armed security services.

Contact us today for a free security assessment and quote. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to address your security concerns and questions. Your company’s protection and peace of mind are our top priorities. Our armed guards provide an unparalleled level of security to deter criminal behavior and handle emergency situations with the utmost professionalism.

Contact Information:
Telephone: +1 817–677–8803
Email: info@aaaguards.com
Website: aaaguards.com

Office Locations:
320 Decker Dr #11, Irving, TX 75062
1901 Central Dr. Unit 400, Bedford, TX 76021
405 TX-121 Building A Suite A250, Lewisville, TX 75057
4500 Mercantile Plaza Suite 300, Fort Worth, TX 76137
5050 Quorum Dr. Suite 700, Dallas, TX 75254
700 Milam St #1300, Houston, TX 77002

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AAA Security Guard Services
AAA Security Guard Services

Written by AAA Security Guard Services

Need security services you can count on? AAA Security Guard Services has the experience and expertise to handle any assignment, big or small. Contact us now!

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