Hiring Security Guards to Deal With Repeat Loiterers

One reason why many Professional Security Guards choose a career in Security is because of all the perks – it’s a great job for the entrepreneurial, self-starter, independent-minded professional; there is typically minimal management or supervision; and it is easy to get started in the field. As well, the vast majority of time on the job tends to be trouble-free, which is good for peace of mind and personal safety.

But then there will be those moments when trouble presents itself and won’t go away, such as when a loiterer begins putting in regular appearances at your worksite. When this occurs, it is important to know what steps to take from both a professional and a legal perspective, which is what this article will address.

The Increased Threat From Repeat Loiterers

The issue of repeat loiterers is actually one reason why some businesses are hiring Security Guards. This indicates that repeat loiterers are becoming more problematic than they may have been in the past.

The truth is, repeat loiterers, whether for reasons of vagrancy, panhandling, theft reconnaissance, substance use, intent to do harm or other issues impact more than just the single business they may have targeted. The whole nearby community can be affected by these issues in detrimental ways if the loiterers are not redirected in safe and effective ways as quickly as possible.

Learn From What Works

One of the best ways to deal with these newer types of Security Industry issues is to share good ideas that really work. Learning from other Security Guards ensures effective and useful skills to handle these situations. Here are a few legal tools you can use to deal with repeat loiterers:

– Treat them with calm respect and kindness. You don’t know what they may be dealing with, whether mental or physical illness, drug use, intent to cause harm; a calm, professional approach allows you to assess the threat level and the potential need before deciding on the best course of action.

– Gather your redirection resources in advance. Giving a loiterer timely information about local homeless shelters, food banks, low-cost medical clinics and similar community resources may easily redirect the loiterer so they can get their underlying needs met.

– Make it easy for loiterers to comply with local laws. Be aware of what your local laws say about loitering and then post visible public notices to that effect at your workplace. This can make it easier to have that conversation with a loiterer about moving along.

– Don’t make too-easy assumptions. In rare cases, a repeat loiterer may simply have designated your workplace as a meet-up spot for doing their own business or other reasons. Even if all signs point to repeat loitering, it is best to confirm rather than assume it is loitering.

– Make the area unattractive to loiterers. Security cameras with video surveillance, motion-activated sprinkler systems and security lighting, perimeter fencing with a locked security gate, installation of uncomfortable rock or gravel in areas where loiterers may sleep or rest and similar acts can all act as passive tools to discourage repeat loiterers.

– Keep an active Security Guard Liability Insurance policy. Because there can be a legal grey area between loitering and simply “hanging around,” it is important to protect yourself from possible liability charges by maintaining an active Security Guard Liability Insurance policy.