By Raul Velasquez, DSL, CPO
Security Specialist
In recent years, many communities across Florida have begun calling security service companies before contacting 9-1-1 in emergencies. While this trend is understandable, it’s important to know when to reach out to your contract guard service company and when to immediately call 9-1-1 for critical situations. This blog will explain the types of calls that require a 9-1-1 response and those that are better suited for your guard service’s dispatch.
When to Call 9-1-1
9-1-1 should always be your first call in a real emergency, especially when there are immediate threats to life, property, or health. Law enforcement, medical professionals, and firefighters are trained and equipped to handle such crises.
Here are examples of when you should call 911:
1. Criminal Activity in Progress: If you witness a crime such as a robbery, assault, or break-in happening, call 9-1-1 immediately.
2. Medical Emergencies: If someone is experiencing life-threatening symptoms such as chest pain, severe injury, or loss of consciousness, 9-1-1 is your best and fastest option for medical intervention.
3. Fires: Whether a fire is small or large, fire departments need to be alerted as quickly as possible to contain the fire and protect lives.
4. Serious Accidents: Car crashes or other accidents involving severe injuries require immediate attention. Call 9-1-1 to ensure the right emergency responders are sent.
5. Dangerous Individuals: If someone is acting violently or threatening others, 9-1-1 should be contacted first.
6. Suspicious Packages or Bomb Threats: If you come across a suspicious package or receive a bomb threat, evacuate the area and contact 9-1-1 right away.
Delaying a 9-1-1 call can reduce response times in emergencies, potentially putting lives in further danger.
When to Call Your Contract Guard Service Company
On the other hand, your contract guard service company is ideal for non-emergency situations that don’t pose an immediate risk to life or property. While security guards can provide support and monitor situations, they are not equipped to handle medical or law enforcement emergencies in the same way that first responders are.
Common reasons to call your security company include:
1. Routine Patrol Requests: When you need extra patrols around your home or business due to concerns about theft, vandalism, or loitering.
2. Suspicious but Non-Threatening Behavior: If you notice someone loitering around your property but they aren’t presenting an immediate danger, your security provider can send guards to assess the situation.
3. Alarm System Malfunctions: If your security system triggers a false alarm or experiences a technical malfunction, your security company should be the first to respond.
4. Non-Emergency Reports: When a crime or incident has already occurred but no one is in immediate danger, such as a break-in that took place hours earlier, your security company can assist with monitoring the area.
5. Special Events or Escort Requests: When you need extra security for an event or personal protection, contacting your guard service can ensure proper coverage.
Understanding Response Times
I understand why many communities choose to contact their contracted security service first. Security companies can often arrive faster than law enforcement due to their proximity or dedicated focus on your property. However, calling your guard service before 9-1-1 can delay the emergency response from paramedics, police, or firefighters, especially in life-threatening situations.
To ensure that both emergency services and your security company are engaged, I recommend the following: Call 9-1-1 first, especially in medical emergencies or situations where lives are at risk. After contacting 9-1-1, you can then notify your contract guard service’s dispatch center. Most security companies, like Velasquez International, have well-trained professionals who can assist in non-emergency roles or provide additional support.
At Velasquez International, our mobile patrol division is equipped with CPR/AED and first aid equipment, and our guards are trained to handle certain medical situations. However, even with these capabilities, a 9-1-1 response is crucial for life-or-death medical situations.
Proactive Security Solutions
One effective way to ensure both emergency responders and security personnel are notified in critical situations is to integrate your guard service provider into your alarm system. By adding your contract guard service to your alarm system, an alarm activation would not only alert 9-1-1 but also notify your guard company. This ensures faster coordination between security personnel and first responders.
Final Thoughts
Both 9-1-1 and your contract guard service company serve critical roles in ensuring your safety. For emergencies, calling 9-1-1 should always be your priority, while your security company can handle non-emergencies and assist as a secondary resource. By using both services effectively, you’ll ensure the fastest possible response times for any situation.
Stay safe,
Raul Velasquez, DSL, CPO
Owner | Manager
Velasquez International
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