Private Security Firms vs. Police: Who’s Got Your Back in Florida?
Have you ever felt like the cops just aren’t doing enough to keep your neighborhood safe? You’re not alone. Here in Florida, more and more people are turning to private security firms instead of relying on the police. And it’s easy to see why. Private security offers round-the-clock protection that’s tailored to your needs. They can patrol your streets, monitor your home, and respond at a moment’s notice. But some say private firms lack accountability and oversight. So who really has your back when things go wrong? Are private security firms the answer or just part of the problem? Read on to learn the pros and cons so you can decide what’s right for your community.
The Growing Role of Private Security Firms in Florida
Private security companies are expanding rapidly in Florida. Many businesses and communities are hiring private guards over police to patrol property and deter crime.
Cost Effective Solution
Private security offers an affordable alternative to expensive police resources. AAA Security Guard Services provides armed or unarmed guards at a fraction of the cost of police officers. For a monthly fee, they’ll patrol your neighborhood, business or event.
Specialized Protection
Private firms also provide specialized services that police don’t offer. They offer bodyguard details, executive protection, and security for major events. They are also trained for specific security needs like loss prevention, access control and cybersecurity.
A Sense of Security
For some, private guards just make people feel safer. Seeing armed security on patrol deters potential criminals and reassures residents and customers. Private guards also build relationships with the communities they serve and get to know local issues in a way that police may not.
While private security can supplement police work, they lack the authority and resources of real law enforcement. Still, for those seeking cost-effective, specialized protection, private firms provide an attractive security option in Florida. With crime rates rising, private security companies will likely continue expanding to meet the growing demand.
Key Differences Between Private Security and Police in Florida
Authority and jurisdiction
Private security guards have limited authority since they’re employed by private companies. They can only operate on the property they’re hired to protect. Cops, on the other hand, have full police powers and jurisdiction within their city or county. They can arrest anyone, anywhere in their patrol area.
Training and certification
To become a security guard in Florida, you need only complete a basic training course and pass an exam. Police officers undergo intensive training at a police academy to prepare them for the complexities of law enforcement. They must also pass rigorous physical and mental evaluations.
Use of force
Security guards have limited authority to use force and typically only carry non-lethal weapons like batons, pepper spray or tasers. Police officers are highly trained in the use of firearms and can use lethal force if necessary to protect themselves or the public.
Salary and benefits
You get what you pay for. While security guards typically earn around $30,000 a year in Florida, police salaries average $50,000 and come with excellent benefits like healthcare, retirement plans and paid time off.
Sure, private security has an important role to play. But when it comes to training, authority, use of force and compensation, police officers are in a different league altogether. If there’s a serious threat to public safety, you’ll be glad these highly trained professionals have your back.
When to Call the Police vs. Private Security in Florida
In Florida, knowing whether to call the police or private security in an emergency can be confusing. As a general rule of thumb, always contact 911 for life-threatening situations or crimes in progress. The police are trained and equipped to handle dangerous events.
However, for non-urgent issues on private property, private security may be a better option. They can respond quickly since they operate locally and are familiar with the area. Private security also has a legal right to ask people to leave private property. The police may not respond as fast to non-emergency calls on private land.
In some cases, you may need to contact both. For example, if there’s an intruder in your home or business, call 911 right away. But also alert your private security company, who can often get there faster to scare off or detain the intruder until police arrive. They can also help manage the scene by controlling crowds or securing entry points.
Working with private security and your local police department will give you the most comprehensive protection in Florida. Know their roles, build positive relationships with both, and don’t hesitate to call on them when you need help. Your safety and security should be top priorities.
Contact Us Today
Have your security needs changed recently? Maybe you’ve had some issues with trespassing or theft and want to beef up patrols. Or perhaps you’re looking to cut costs but not compromise protection. Whatever the situation, the team at AAA Security Guard Services is here to help.
Our dedicated staff has over 20 years of experience handling security for residential communities, businesses, and events across Florida. We provide custom solutions based on your unique needs and budget.
Flexible and Affordable
We offer a range of options to suit any need and price point:
- Unarmed security officers for basic monitoring
- Armed security for high-risk areas
- Mobile patrols for larger properties
- Temporary event security
Our services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We aim to provide the highest quality protection at competitive rates. Discounts are available for long-term contracts and bundled services.
Don’t leave your safety and security to chance. Our team is standing by to design a customized solution for you. Contact AAA Security Guard Services today to learn more about how we can help protect what matters most to you.
Telephone: +1 817–677–8803
Email: info@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
