Pursuing a career as a security guard can be as challenging as it is rewarding, and it takes certain requirements to enter this field. Every jurisdiction has different requirements, therefore becoming a licensed, bonded and insured security guard in Calgary might entail a different procedure than if you were to seek the same position in another region. As a professional Calgary security guard, you might choose to be self employed and work independently, or you might work for an established company in the city. In either case, you will need extensive training before you can become licensed. A security guard around Calgary may work in various environments. His or her services may include residential, commercial or industrial work. As a Calgary security guard, you may be called upon to protect a residential home, a business or even to provide protection and security for a special event. Your work may involve securing property from a stationary location, or you may choose to work from a mobile patrol in a marked vehicle. The main job of a security guard that is employed in Calgary and surrounding areas will be to protect and secure property from theft or invasions. Most security officers in Calgary will be required to wear a special uniform while on duty. Not all security guards in Calgary will be required to carry a firearm or weapon. An armed security guard will be carrying a gun, therefore he or she must undergo special training on the use of firearms. In examining the special requirements of the typical security job in the Calgary area, you may note that vocational or technical training may be necessary for some positions. In addition, you will most likely receive on the job training with a supervisor that has experience in security operations. You may take special courses dedicated to the field of security guard technology, and you may also require certification. To become certified or to receive your security guard license, you will need to pass a written examination. Additionally, you may be required to pass a physical examination and undergo a health and drug screening for employment with a security guard company. A criminal background check is most often required to land a job as a security guard in Calgary. Physical strength and stamina is very necessary for becoming a security guard, as it can be a physically stressful occupation. As a security officer, you may be required to stand for hours at a time at a fixed post, or you may be assigned to foot patrol, in which case you will be walking during your shift. Calgary area security guards often work outdoors during the cold winter months. As the weather of Calgary may become quite cold, and the area often receives snow and ice during the winter months, working outdoors may become very demanding. If you are not accustomed to the cold climate of Calgary, you might want to reevaluation your decision to become an outdoor security officer in the city. Security guards almost always use two way communication radios while on duty. As a security officer in Calgary, you may also use a pager for contact. You may receive instruction or training on proper usage from your supervisor. Being a Calgary security guard is not always limited to a fixed post position or foot or mobile patrol duties. If you are employed at a retail store or other public site, you may have to respond to various emergency situations. Shopping malls, casinos, airports, government buildings and other facilities may receive emergency calls for bomb threats or other imminent danger. As an armed security guard you may be placed in a precarious situation when responding to these calls. In addition to working under pressure or under dangerous situations, you will be required to write reports, so providing attention to detail is equally important as being physically and mentally strong. Honesty and integrity are important traits to possess for a security guard position as well. In some cases, security guard must also be trained in first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
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