ROLE OF SECURITY GUARDS IN DISASTER MANAGEMENT

Understanding the vital role security guards play in disaster management, whether it’s an emergency like a fire or a natural catastrophe like an earthquake, security guards are crucial for safeguarding people and property by guaranteeing a prompt, well-coordinated response. Businesses, organisations, communities, and individuals may all get disaster preparedness training. Disaster preparedness is achieved through review and training that is enhanced by the involvement of security officers. Let’s examine the capabilities and procedures security guards employ to ensure everyone’s safety as well as their role in disaster management.

Pre-Disaster Stage

The following are among the preparations, planning, training, and similar activities that are prioritised at this stage:

1. Disaster Response Plans. Preparation is the first step towards effective disaster management. To create thorough disaster response plans, security personnel collaborate with management teams and emergency planners. These plans specify how to handle various emergency situations, including roles and duties, communication methods, and evacuation routes. Security personnel who take part in planning make sure that plans are synchronised and that everyone is aware of what to do in the event of an emergency. They must be involved from the very beginning of the planning process and provide situation assessment by locating possible dangers and hazards in the impacted region and informing emergency services about them.
2. Training. For comprehensive training in emergency response techniques, first aid, crowd control, and disaster management protocols, regular drills and training sessions are essential. These drills, which simulate different emergency situations to hone their reaction, are led and participated by security personnel. Guards are better able to understand the emergency response strategy and spot any possible flaws thanks to this practical experience. To ensure that guards are prepared to respond quickly in any emergency they are trained in the use of emergency supplies like first aid kits and fire extinguishers. To ensure readiness, every element is assessed and remedial action is implemented.
3. Emergency Kits. It’s crucial to have emergency kits on hand that include necessities like communication devices, flashlights, and first aid items. To keep in touch with emergency services and other security professionals, security guards need to have access to a dependable communication system.

During Disaster Stage

Appropriate preparation guarantees a coordinated reaction. Disasters happen unexpectedly, and the security personnel must be ready to handle these situations. They participate in the duties listed below:

1. Evacuation. Ensuring the safe evacuation of individuals from the affected region the security guards’ first priorities when a disaster occurs. In order to maintain order and avoid panic, guards lead people to safe locations by guiding them along designated evacuation routes and assembly locations. They also ensure that everyone is accounted for at these times. During evacuations, controlling huge crowds is crucial to preserving order and averting panic. Their expertise in emergency response and crowd control enables them to organise evacuations effectively, putting everyone’s safety first.
2. Providing Emergency First Aid. Because they are trained in basic first aid and CPR, security personnel may provide immediate medical assistance until professional medical help arrives. To ensure that people in need receive timely care during a crisis, they evaluate the situation, provide first aid, and coordinate with emergency medical services.
3. Maintaining Security. The risk of theft and looting is increased during the pandemonium of a disaster. By keeping an eye on high-risk locations, guarding entrances, and discouraging would-be offenders, security personnel help prevent these crimes. Their presence lessens the possibility of theft and vandalism both during and after disaster by preserving property and order.
4. Managing Access and Information. By controlling entry and exit points to secure buildings and vital infrastructure, security guards prevent unauthorised entry and regulate access to affected areas, ensuring that only authorised personnel are permitted admission. Additionally, they act as a bridge between the affected populace and emergency responders, giving them vital information about the situation. They also aid in the information flow by guiding people to safety. Guards provide clear direction and assistance amid the chaos that frequently follows disasters, acting as a vital liaison between the organisation, the general people, and emergency services.
5. Guarding Property. Security personnel must take appropriate precautions to safeguard assets and property in the event of a disaster by keeping an eye out for theft or destruction.

Post-Disaster Stage

Recovery by asset salvage and a return to normalcy is the main focus post disaster. Careful steps must be taken in order to:

1. Assess Damage and Secure Sites. Security personnel help with damage assessment and site security, once the immediate threat has gone. They record the degree of damage, spot any lingering dangers, and assist in securing structures and areas to stop more damage or illegal entry. Their work guarantees the safe and effective continuation of recovery activities. To safeguard vulnerable people, shelters and temporary housing facilities must also maintain security.
2. Supporting Relief Efforts. Security personnel assist with recovery logistics, distribute supplies, and coordinate with emergency services to support relief operations. They assist in the establishment and administration of relief centres, make sure the equitable distribution of resources and the provision of necessary assistance to individuals impacted by the calamity. In order to help the community return to everyday life and restore normalcy, their engagement in the recovery process is essential.

Through preparation, readiness, and reaction, security and disaster management are linked. By helping with evacuations, upholding order, administering basic first aid, spotting dangers, liaising with emergency services, and protecting property during crises, security guards play a critical role in disaster management. When managing crises, their professionalism and effectiveness are crucial. They create response plans, conduct drills, evacuate, administer first aid, maintain order, and help in the healing process. Their commitment and knowledge guarantee that organisations are ready for any crisis, guaranteeing a successful response to protect communities. Ensuring that security personnel have the necessary training and tools to manage crises effectively and professionally is essential. Their dedication and expertise ensure that organisations are prepared for any emergency, ready to respond effectively to safeguard our communities.

Col (Prof) Rajive Kohli, Ph.D.