According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, there were approximately 9,082,887 property crimes committed in 2010. Although a seemingly large number, the rate of property crimes occurring have decreased 2.7% in 2010 in comparison to 2009. Business owners are particularly vulnerable to property crimes, and may want to look into hiring site security services, like those at http://www.ssnwhq.com. Security guards can legally be in possession of weapons, such as batons. This article will explore both your and the security guard's responsibilities if batons are used.

Why Use Batons?

Security guards may have to face serious dangers on the job. Instead of having to face these challenges unarmed, you should allow the security guards to have some of protection with them. Out of all of the weapons out there, the baton can offer numerous benefits to the security guards. They include:

• reducing risk of injury and liability.
• restraining criminals with less leverage. Security guards will use less force.
• requiring the least amount of training, and can be easily used by both men and women.
• deflecting blows and attacks easily.
• taking down opponents without having to inflict a lot of force.
• being effective in handcuffing.
• forming an armlock that the suspects cannot escape from; thus, resulting in an easier escorting position.

There are many different designs and types of batons. Most site security services will specify the type of batons that their officers prefer, so that you are well aware of the type of tools that are being used on the job.

What Are The Security Guard's Responsibilities With The Baton?

Not all officers and security guards are free to carry batons with them. They are required to go through a lengthy training course and to receive a baton permit, which provides authorization for carrying the baton while on duty and while directly en route to and from work. Keep in mind that security guards cannot receive a baton permit until he or she has received a valid guard registration card. The security guards are responsible for:

• carrying a valid baton permit while on duty and while carrying a baton. In California, officers who are found to not have a valid license will be fined $100 for the first violation and $200 for each subsequent violation. They may also be charged with felony possession of a deadly weapon.
• justifying the amount of force that was used. Guards who are found to have used excessive or unjustifiable force may be suspended immediately from their positions. In addition to the suspension, the government may also choose to seek revocation of the guard's registration.
• carry a Bureau-issued security guard registration at all times. The security guards are responsible for having valid registration and identification that can verify his or her identity. 

Those who fail to fulfill their responsibilities may be heavily fined or immediately suspended. All security guards are responsible for going through long and rigorous training courses regarding how to properly use and carry a baton. 

What Are Your Responsibilities?

The responsibilities do not solely fall on the shoulders of the guards offering site security services. You also have some responsibility if you allow for batons to be used on your premises by the site security services. You are responsible for:

• making sure that all employees that carry a baton have a baton permit and their guard's registration. According to the Business and Professions Code Section 7587.8(e), you can be fined up to $2,500 if you fail to do so.
• reporting all physical alterations that involved the batons. You will need to file reports in the following situations:
  • the security guards under your employment are arrested.
  • a member of the public files a police report against the guards.
  • a member of the public sustains injuries that requires medical attention.
  • the guards using the batons have been discharged, suspended or even terminated.

Conclusion

Site security services can reduce criminal activities on your property, and also improve how safe your customers feel while visiting your shops. By equipping the security guards with a baton, you are able to ensure that they are better protected and that they have the tools needed to reprimand subjects in an efficient and effective manner. If you do choose to equip guards with batons, make sure that you and the guards are aware of the responsibilities that both of you have.