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THE SECURITY OBJECTIVE
Security as we all know is defined as a department whose task is that of providing protection against crime; however, we must also realize that our job goes far beyond this definition.
Security Officers, although not law enforcement officers, have the authority and right to protect private property and the guests of that property. Any action taken by them, whether right or wrong, is a direct reflection on their professionalism and that of the Company.
Back in the 1960' s, security personnel were referred to as "GUARDS" due to the fact that physical requirements at that time were placed far above the need for mental knowledge; a "GUARD'S" quality was based on how well he could "handle himself" with little or no concern for legal ramifications; however, in the early 1970's the field of Security commenced the inevitable climb to Professionalism.
Today' s Security personnel within the Company are skilled "Officers" and like any Security professional detest the title of "Guard". Professional Officers today must have a thorough, working knowledge of Federal, State, and local laws and have the ability to relate these laws in every type of situation imaginable. "Officers" are now medically trained in First Aid, C.P.R., and Defibrillators, they are frequently credited saving human lives.
This climb to professionalism, although commenced several years ago, still is many years away from public acceptance. The majority of today's society still cringes at the word security due to the fact most people still refer to "Officers" as "Guards". This barrier will be slowly broken down through guests' experiences and media coverage; however, it will be an uphill struggle.
Unfortunately, we professionals must combat the public's "Rent-A-Cop" syndrome. In today's Security field, "Officers" are paid approximately 2-1/2 times what rent agencies pay "Guards" and in some cases more than some Law Enforcement Officers. This discrepancy in pay scale leads to poor quality in the Security Rent Agency field, and Private Security Professionals, being outnumbered by Rental Agencies, by countless numbers, must combat the sad reputation given off by the "Rent-A-Cop" syndrome.
As professional Security Officers we can enhance our profession by job performance and appearance and through the important task of public relations we can strengthen our goal of public acceptance.
Unlike a police agency, we do not have the legal power, technical capabilities or specialized field expertise to solve many crimes, therefore, we must concentrate strongly in the area of prevention. Recognizing crime possibilities and taking preventive measures is our main avenue of protecting the structure, contents,employees, and guests of this Hotel / Casino.
As you enter this profession, it is important to realize that if you are looking for a job with steady hours, predictable duties and a patterned existence, the field of Security is none of the above. The Security field, as in any law enforcement field is one that requires extreme "mental toughness". Commendations today, criticisms tomorrow. Commendations by nature are accepted with modesty; criticisms must be handled with the attitude that we learn by our mistakes and move forward because of them.
What is a Security Officer?
He's a great asset to the Casino!
