Why security guards aren’t enough to prevent losses and what you should do to make your home, office or warehouse safe

In today’s uncertain times, ensuring the safety and security of our homes, offices and warehouses has become more critical than ever. Many of us rely on security guards to keep us and our assets safe at home and offices. However, recent incidents and studies suggest that solely depending on these guards might not be sufficient to prevent losses.
Recent studies conducted by the an industry body shed light on a concerning trend: India holds the dubious distinction for the highest rate of losses due to various factors including theft, pilferage, inventory mismatch, and criminal conspiracies. These losses, estimated to be around 25 per cent of total losses suffered by industries and establishments, often go unaddressed by management.

“Security guards alone cannot effectively prevent serious theft, nor can alarm systems or standalone measures guarantee a state free of pilferage. What’s required is an active deterrent strategy, emphasizing prevention over cure, RN Pimple chairman CISS group companies said.

“Retailers, for instance, reported a staggering $112.1 billion lost to inventory shrinkage in 2022, according to the National Retail Federation’s annual Retail Security Survey. External theft, followed closely by theft by employees, accounts for the lion’s share of this shrinkage. Even minor instances of employee theft can result in substantial losses for organisations, RN Pimple added.

Limited Capacity and Expertise
Security guards, while essential, often have limited capacity and expertise to handle various security threats effectively. They may not be adequately trained to deal with modern security challenges such as burglary, vandalism, or unauthorized access. Moreover, in the event of a security breach, their response may not always be swift or appropriate.

Vulnerability to External Factors
Society guards are also vulnerable to external factors beyond their control, such as being outnumbered or overpowered by intruders. Additionally, they may lack the necessary resources or support to tackle sophisticated criminal activities. In such situations, relying solely on the presence of a guard might leave your home susceptible to security breaches.

The Need for Comprehensive Security Measures
To enhance the security of your home, it’s imperative to supplement the efforts of society guards with comprehensive security measures. Here are some steps you can take:

Install Surveillance Cameras: Set up surveillance cameras in strategic locations around your home to monitor activities and deter potential intruders. Modern CCTV systems offer advanced features such as motion detection and remote monitoring, providing added peace of mind.

Implement Access Control Systems: Install access control systems such as smart locks or keyless entry systems to regulate entry into your home. These systems allow you to control and monitor access remotely, minimizing the risk of unauthorized entry.

Invest in Security Alarms: Install security alarm systems that trigger alerts in the event of suspicious activity or unauthorized entry. These alarms can act as a deterrent and alert you and authorities promptly in case of emergencies.

Engage Professional Security Services: Consider hiring professional security services that offer comprehensive security solutions tailored to your specific needs. These services may include round-the-clock surveillance, patrols, and emergency response teams, providing an additional layer of protection for your home.

Community Vigilance Programs: Initiate or participate in community vigilance programs aimed at fostering a sense of collective security within your residential society. By collaborating with neighbors and sharing information about security threats, you can create a safer living environment for everyone.