10 essential pieces of equipment a Security Guard can’t live without

10 essential pieces of equipment a Security Guard can’t live without

Being a security guard can be risky business. Whilst their role is to protect, it’s easy to overlook their own personal safety. Lack of adequate safety measures can put a security guard at unnecessary risk, so regardless of whether their job is to protect people, property, or assets, being equipped with the right protection is crucial to ensure their personal safety isn't compromised.

So what protection is necessary for the security guard in order to reduce risk and allow them to carry out their duties safely?  We’ve identified ten essential pieces of personal protective equipment that should be considered by both employees and security guards.

1. Two-way radio

Communication is critical for security guard safety. Two-way radios are a common communication method for close protection officers, or a security guard working at events or in retail.  Designed to swiftly communicate information over long or short distances, a two-way radio will allow a security team to communicate effectively and easily activate instant back up if a situation becomes dangerous.

2. Smartphone

Smartphones are indispensable in today’s continually connected world. 80% of the UK population now own one and it’s hard to imagine a day without one. It offers the security guard a powerful mobile communication tool, with access to the internet and a camera, it enables you to plan and react to unforeseen circumstances. It also allows easy access to a range of apps, including rapid recording apps that allow issues to be captured and reported quickly and automatically.

3. First aid kit

Having access to a first-aid kit for self-help, or to render assistance to a colleague is the most effective way to help prevent an illness or injury from becoming more serious. Particularly in remote locations where medical care might be limited, the ability to administer first aid will help protect against minor trauma or wounds.

4. Lone worker alarm

The very nature of a being a security guard means that they are often required to work on their own, and sometimes late at night when there may be increased chance of threat. Technology has made a huge difference to the way in which security guards can now be protected.  Lone worker protection systems can now be centralised and monitored via an app, making it simple to track the exact location of your security fleet, and enable the security guard to easily raise an alarm in the event of an emergency.

5. Torch

A torch can be a handy piece of equipment; not only to aid your vision in the night, or if there is a power cut. But a torch can also be used in self-defense, a bright torch can dazzle an attacker giving you enough time to raise the alarm or make your escape. A large torch can also be used to protect yourself physically too, by blocking strikes by weapons such as bats or knives. You could also utilise a torch as a weapon to strike your attacker as a last resort.

6. Notepad and Pen

Carrying a notepad and pen might seem outdated with today’s technology, but the batteries never run out with these! This is an essential piece of equipment for any security guard. A note pad is easily looked at to reference your all-important notes, names and numbers. It’s also useful to be able to jot down important information whilst you’re on the phone.

7. Stab proof or ballistic vest

The severity of risk will largely depend on the environment in which you work, but working as a security guard you will face aggression or threats from time to time. Wearing protective clothing such as stab proof vests will help protect you from any dangerous threats you may encounter.  In some high-profile risk situations, ballistic vests may be more appropriate for those looking to convey a high level of vigilance and protection against every eventuality.

8. Appropriate footwear

Most security guards will be on their feet most of the time, so it’s important to invest in appropriate and comfortable footwear that should be practical but durable, comfortable and look suitably professional.

9. SIA Licence

An SIA licence is a necessity for most security professionals. It should be worn in a prominent position, usually the SIA issue lanyard or armband. Professionals working in the Close Protection sector are exempt from this requirement due to the frequently confidential nature of their work and the need to have a degree of anonymity. However they need to have it on their person and be able to produce a valid licence on request from a Police Officer or SIA inspector.

10. Hi Visibility Clothing

Not only does hi-vis clothing distinguish you from members of the public, it also alerts would be criminals or trouble makers to your presence, which may deter them from attempting to break the law. Should you injure yourself or fall ill, it is also a lot easier to find you by day and night.

Article by Mathew Colley of LoneALERT, the UK’s leading provider of lone worker protection solutions, offering a range of lone worker alarms, man-down devices and solutions to protect staff who work remotely, alone or who are vulnerable.

What makes the perfect bodyguard in London?

The Perfect Bodyguard in London

What makes the Perfect Bodyguard in London? Most people associate the word ‘bodyguard’ with the giant man mountain, often seen babysitting celebrities in the States. Or Kevin Costner style gun toting Hollywood heart throbs. The reality is, both types of these bodyguards fit a role, just not in London.

This months guest blog is written by a former British Special Forces soldier who works for Westminster Security and wishes to remain anonymous. He has vast experience providing close protection around the world through his time in the military, with over 15 years experience in the private sector, predominantly operating as an individual close protection bodyguard in London.

At Westminster Security, when a new client calls us to enquire about our close protection services in London, they often ask; how big is he? How tall is he? Is he a good fighter? I have to kindly explain to them that none of these factors come into consideration when it comes to placing an operative to protect them. What does matter is manners, intelligence, observation skills, forward planning, people skills, etiquette and local knowledge. Not fast cars, muscles and guns!

Bodyguards in London are now commonly referred to as ‘Close Protection Operatives’ or CPOs. The title projects an image of professionalism, whereas ‘Bodyguard’ sounds a lot more intimidating and some might say thuggish.

Types of Bodyguard

The giant sized Man Mountain – As mentioned preciously, this type of bodyguard is often seen gracing the glossy tabloid magazine pages, pictured manhandling fans or carrying designer shopping bags for their tiny celebrity principals, who are dwarfed in their shadows. Their waistlines are bigger than their egos, and they’re as effective as solar powered torches. However, record labels and celebs love them as they feel safe hiding behind them, and they grab the headlines.

Muscle bound meat heads – The type of bodyguard who has waited 10 years to get his SIA licence due to the murder charge on his record. An old school doorman with more scars and tattoos than teeth, a man who could kill you with his breath alone. Fortunately this type of bodyguard normally ply their trade on the doors at the local pub, wooing punters with their CP badge of honour, and tales of heroics. Seldom do you see them on the catwalks of Knightsbridge and Chelsea, they certainly look lost at sea during afternoon tea at The Ritz.

The car salesman – Fresh off his close protection course, armed with his quick tongue and spikey hair, ill-fitting supermarket suit, shiny faux leather shoes, pink shirt, brash tie and sunglasses. He knows everything and is better than every other bodyguard and he’s keen, ready and eager to show you – by beating you in an arm wrestle over lunch. Like a rabbit in the headlights on sight of their first street beggar, but tells his Facebook friends he fought off an armed gang. Luckily these newbies get found out quick, and end up doing nights on a building site for the rest of their glittering security careers.

The grey man – He is your perfect bodyguard in London, he is neither a man mountain, meat head nor car salesman. He is professional, he blends in, keeps his mouth closed and ears open. He speaks when spoken to and is polite to everyone. He fits in at a Michelin star restaurant, just as well as in a busy nightclub. He has good local knowledge and connections, he is mature with a good sense of humour. He is thinking 10 steps ahead, and can take control of any situation with ease. He is effective and he is respected for his results, not his stories. He is versatile, adaptable and proactive. He has a military or police background in close protection, he is who you want as your bodyguard in London.

Westminster Security in London

At Westminster Security, we provide highly sought after, professional close protection operatives. All of our CPO’s have backgrounds in the British Military and Police specialist protection units. We believe that their training and experience is priceless, which helps them and us stand out above other security companies for all the right reasons.

We only employ the most experienced and qualified close protection operatives with proven exemplary backgrounds. They are all rigorously financially and security vetted for your peace of mind. They are all trained in advanced driving, first aid, conflict resolution and self-defence.

We provide a complete, premier protection service. Including but not limited to; security chauffeured luxury vehicles, residential security and concierge services. Our clients include royalty, celebrities, company CEOs and high-net-worth families. We are well practiced in providing a high end service for the fast paced demanding lifestyles of our clients. We operate with complete discretion and efficiency.

Find out more about our close protection bodyguards in London by clicking here.

Contact Westminster Security today to enquire about our Close Protection Bodyguard services in London.

Call us on: 0208 123 3323 or 0755 4000 300

Close Protection FAQ’s

Do you have female bodyguards in London?

-          Yes, we can provide a wide range of female bodyguards to suit all your needs. We have female bodyguards who are also trained in childcare, and others who are multilingual. Please contact us with your individual requirements and we will do our utmost to assist you.

Can my bodyguard also double as my driver?

-          Yes, all of our close protection operatives are trained in advanced defensive driving. All of whom have vast experience chauffeuring our ‘Best of British’ fleet, which includes; Rolls Royce, Bentley, Jaguar and Range Rover vehicles.

I need to hire bodyguards in London, what is the procedure?

-          Once we receive your call or email we will discuss your individual requirements and conduct an initial threat and risk assessment to figure out the best systems to put in place to mitigate the threats and risks posed to you. We will then assign a bodyguard or close protection team for your personal protection. Please contact us for further information.

www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/the-perfect-bodyguard-in-london/

Westminster Security London - New Website!

Welcome to our new website!

Westminster Security have a new website, it’s been 12 months in the making, and we hope you like it!. Apart from a complete redesign and rewrite, we've added an Arabic section for those travelling from the Middle East who are looking for a security company in London. We’ve added a blog section to enable us to communicate company updates, Industry news, press releases and employment opportunities. We’ve linked our social media accounts, don't forget to ‘Like Us’ on Facebook and ‘Follow’ us on Twitter, and we're now on Google+. We look forward to connecting with you!.

About Westminster Security

We are a private security company based in Central London, established to provide high end premier security services to customers who require more than just security. Our service has been tailored to provide complete security and bespoke lifestyle management, including transportation, concierge, investigation and manned security. We pride ourselves on providing a premier service without the premium cost. We believe in quality over quantity so recruit only the most trained and experienced security operatives with backgrounds in the Police and British Armed Forces. All of whom undergo a strict vetting and recruitment process. Enabling us to provide our customers with a security management service that is second-to-none.

Our Area of operation

Westminster security mainly operate in London and the surrounding areas. However, we have to capabilities and experience to operate anywhere in the UK, Europe and around the world. We regularly operate in France for our clients which is becoming an evermore popular destination, therefore we have established a strong team based in Paris, ready to deploy at a moments notice. Over the years we have provided close protection bodyguards and security chauffeurs in Iraq, Kurdistan, Kuwait, Jordan, Saudi, the United States of America and South America. We are due to deploy security teams to some of these destinations shortly.

Services we provide

• Chauffeurs – All of our chauffeurs are trained to the highest standards in driving. They have undergone advanced driver training in either the military or police, they have then completed advanced driver training with the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) or RoSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents), in some cases both qualifications. Our Security Chauffeurs have the same advanced driving qualifications, plus SIA close protection training, and further close protection driver training which includes but not limited to: route selection and planning, protocol & etiquette, embus/debus drills, intensive advanced defensive driving, surveillance awareness & detection, reaction to attack, vehicle control limits and escort/convoy driving drills. This training ensures that we provide the best security chauffeurs in London. For more information on our chauffeur and security chauffeur in London services, please contact us or visit our chauffeur in London page.

• Close Protection / Bodyguards – Our male & female close protection bodyguards in London are amongst the best, most sought after in the security industry. The vast majority of them are from specialist VIP protection units in the military and police. We can supply bodyguards in London of any shape or size to fit your individual requirements. Some clients prefer the discreet ‘executive’ bodyguard who wouldn't look out of place at The Ritz, others like the large physical presence of a ‘man mountain’ to escort them in clubs etc. Whatever your reference, we can provide all your close protection needs in London. For more information on our close protection in London, please contact us or visit our close protection page for more information.

•  Concierge – We provide an unparalleled concierge service in London to our clients, this is not a stand-alone service and is usually provided as part of a close protection service. Our close protection teams are well experienced in providing for all of our customers last minute requirements, anything from popular restaurant/club reservations, VIP cinema/concert/sporting tickets to flights and chartered jets. The only limits are time and your budget, we will do our utmost to source almost anything you want with our vast connections throughout the globe. Security Concierge – Our security concierge service in London combines the front of house receptionist role with that of a security guard, this is an effective way of providing a discreet security presence at your business or residential development. Our security guards are all trained and experienced in providing first class customer service whilst maintaining security. For information on either of our concierge services in London, please contact us.

• Door Supervisors – Westminster Security provide male & female door supervisors in London to many licensed venues, including hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs and private members clubs. Our door supervisors have built an enviable reputation in providing a premier door security service in London. Gone are the days were ‘brutes in suits’ “run the doors”, todays door supervisors – or at least the one’s we employ, have not only a strong physical presence, but also able to converse with a broad spectrum of people from all different backgrounds and nationalities. The vast majority of our Door Supervisors have a British military background, we believe they are a real asset and have consistently proved this through their dedication and helpfulness to our clients and their customers. For more information on door supervisors in London, please contact us or visit our door supervisors in London page.

• Event Security – Our Door Supervisors are also utilised for event security in London, whether big or small, public or private. Westminster Security are able to consult and manage the security for you event in London. For more information on our event security in London and for some examples of the events we have provided security for, please visit our Event Security In London page. 

• Private Investigation - Our Private investigators in London are mainly retired police officers who are experts, and have vast experience in investigations. We provide Private Investigators in London for a wide variety of tasks. Our private investigators in London begin by gathering information from our client, they investigate further or act on these instructions by compiling photographs and/or statements and report the facts to the client before surveillance is instructed if required. It may surprise you what Private investigators actually do, their roles include but not limited too: Process Serving, Locus Reports, Witness Statements, Missing Persons, Listening Devices, Matrimonial Enquiries, Covert CCTV, Court Attendance, Tracking Vehicles, Trace Enquiries, Background Checks and Test Purchasing. For Private Investigation Services in London, contact us. Or visit our Private Investigators in London page.

• Residential Security – Westminster Security provide Residential Security in London for private individuals who require the extra presence of a security guard at their home or hotel suite. Residential security in London varies from a full-time static security guard to 24hr mobile patrols, visiting your property at random or set times throughout the day and night to confirm the security of your property and the absence of undesirables. Hotel residential security in London is usually provided 24hrs a day by a close protection bodyguard to royalty, celebrities and security conscious individuals. The bodyguard is in control of access to the room/suite and reports all activity to the close protection team leader via a written log. For more information on our residential security in London, please contact us or visit our residential security in London page.

• Retail Security – We provide retail security guards in London to many prestigious brands and designer labels, our retail security guards in London have built a great reputation in providing an exemplary service for many high street stores and designer boutiques. Westminster Security understand that customer service is as important as shop security, therefore only employ security guards whom speak perfect English with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Our retail security guards in London are all trained in first-aid, theft awareness and conflict management. If you are looking for a security company in London to provide you with retail security guards that will reflect a positive image of your business to your customers, contact us or visit our retail security guard page for more information.

• Surveillance – London is the surveillance capital of the world, with more CCTV cameras per head than anywhere else. Believe it or not, that makes it even harder for surveillance to be conducted on an individual, as the surveillance operative is also under constant surveillance whilst travelling discreetly around London, undetected by the target, but potentially drawing the attention of the police or CCTV operators. That’s why when it comes to surveillance in London, we are the experts. Our surveillance operatives have backgrounds in the security services, police and military special forces. They are trained to go undetected whilst gathering irrefutable evidence for our clients and submission to the courts. For more information on our surveillance service in London, please contact us or visit our surveillance in London Page.

Thank you for visiting our new Website and blog, if you feel any part of our site could be improved our you would like to comment in anyway about our site or services, please complete the comment box below.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/welcome-new-website/

Close Protection London - Bodyguards in London

Close Protection in London

Security experts estimate that 95% of all close protection operations in the UK, start in/or are conducted within London and the Greater London region. With Kensington, Knightsbridge, Mayfair and the City of London being the hotspots for close protection teams to operate. Generally the work is seasonal, with the influx of tourists from around the world, flocking to London during the summer months to escape the intense heat of their home nations, and to sample the famous cosmopolitan lifestyle that London offers.

What is Close Protection?

In layman’s terms; close protection (CP) is a term used to describe the manned security provided to a person to protect them from physical harm, theft or kidnap. Ensuring their personal safety and security from the threats and risks posed to them. The term given to the manned security is ‘close protection operatives’ (CPO’s) more commonly known as ‘bodyguards’ (BG’s) The person whom is being protected is generally referred to as a ‘principal’. The principal may employ a number of bodyguards depending on the threat posed to them and their family, the collective term for this is ‘close protection team’.

Who needs close protection in London?

There are no prerequisites to be afforded protection from bodyguards in London. If a person, family or business feels the requirement for additional personal security, then they will seek to employ the services of a private security company. The security company will liaise with the principal or their PA and establish the reasons why they feel the need for personal protection. The security company will immediately act upon the principals concerns by providing the requested manpower and electronic counter measures if required, then investigate further. A threat and risk analysis report will be compiled, utilising private investigators in London to establish any threats and the risks posed to the principal, their family and their interests. Once the threat has been established, surveillance may be conducted to monitor it, their capabilities and the risk posed by it/them. The security company will then be in a better position to advise the principal and put in place the relevant risk management measures. Be it physical manned guarding, electronic counter measures or a combination of the two.

Then and only then will the security be effective. – Establish the threat and risks, monitor it, and put in place relevant countermeasures to manage it. The old adage; ‘fail to prepare, then prepare to fail’, certainly applies.

Principal not principle!

A principal is the person being provided personal security, they come in all shapes and sizes, as do CPO’s – but we will discuss this later on. There are 2 main different types of principals; those that need security, and those that think they do. The latter generally being more demanding than the first. Those who need bodyguards may include royalty, heads of state, celebrities, sports personalities, company CEO’s, successful business people and court witnesses. These principals generally like to keep a low profile and take on board any expert security advice given. Principals that ‘think’ they need bodyguards who may not actually need them, may want them as a status symbol, to display wealth and importance, where there is no direct threat against them. This attracts a lot of undue attention by undesirables and by having bodyguards, actually increases the risk of attacks, be it verbal or physical, towards them. This type of principal generally disregards any sort of security advice in favour of their own clouded judgement. However, regardless of who the principal is, the threat and risks posed to them, their age, sex, religion/beliefs or career. Should not negatively affect a CPO’s professionalism and the quality of security provided to them.

Duties of a close protection operative (CPO) or bodyguard

As a bodyguard in London, you will be required to operate in a number of roles within a close protection team. As your career progresses, you will discover which role you are best suited to, focus on this and be the best you can. Be the person on speed dial for close protection team leaders across London. Continue to train and qualify yourself in other areas of close protection, making yourself highly employable. Some of the roles that you might be expected to operate in, include:

Close Protection Operative (Bodyguard)

Team member, ie. A CPO within a team. An Individual Bodyguard (IBG) or Personal Protection Operative (PPO), where you operate on a 1-1 basis with your principal. A team 2ic, you will assist the team leader and step up in their absence. And finally a team leader (TL), a position reserved generally for the most senior or most experienced member of the team.

Residential Security Team (RST)

As the name suggests, your duties will be to secure the principals residence day or night. This may be a hotel room or sprawling country estate. Both situations are very different, however the same principles apply, just adapted slightly depending on your surroundings.Residential security in London should be provided 24 hours a day, with day and night shifts lasting 12 hours each.

Surveillance / Counter Surveillance

When providing close protection in London as part of a larger team, you may be expected to conduct counter surveillance. Observing the close protection team from a distance, looking into and around their environment, looking for anyone watching your team, keeping note of people and vehicles that keep appearing at the same places the team is. Once spotted, it is your job to disrupt that surveillance, enabling your team to lose the surveillance.

Security Chauffeur / Close Protection Driver

Close Protection Teams in London usually operate a 2 vehicle convoy, the front vehicle being the VIP car, transporting your principal in a luxury saloon. And the rear vehicle usually a powerful 4×4, which the CP team travel in. If a professional security chauffeur is not employed, you may be required to chauffeur the principal, or drive the security car – the 2 driving styles required for each of the vehicles, is very different, hence ‘chauffeur’ and ‘drive’. Both tasks require a lot of skill, the convoy must remain as one, with both drivers fully aware of the others next move, and everything else on the road. Road moves are the single most dangerous part of any close protection operation. The embus & debus of the vehicle, and whilst the vehicles are in motion, is the time when most attacks or accidents occur. Therefore, it is imperative that CPO’s undergo advanced driver training, and continue to practise their vehicle drills. Unfortunately, a skill which is overlooked and seriously lacking in many bodyguards, which can have drastic consequences.

Westminster Security Close Protection Service

Westminster Security provide a premier close protection service in London and throughout the world. We deploy former British Military Close Protection experts from the Royal Military Police – Close Protection Unit, Special Air Service and specialist former Police protection officers of the Royalty and Diplomatic Protection units. As well as former British Military personnel who have undertaken rigorous training and excel in their chosen field of security.

For more information on our Close Protection services, please contact us.

If you feel you meet our high standards and criteria for employment, please complete our online application.

Found this blog useful?, please share it or add a comment below. No phone calls regarding employment please.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/close-protection/

Private Security Services in London Shine During Star-studded Events

Will this year’s Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show finally be open to the public? A news feature on the Telegraph says it is possible, albeit at a rather steep price. Cornucopia Events, an event planning company based in London, exclusively offers £10,000-£12,000 tickets to the giant brand’s iconic lingerie fashion show that takes place on 2nd December. Olivia Bergin, fashion editor for the digital publication, describes the spectacle as follows:

It’s a catwalk extravaganza that’s being staged in London for the first time, features the world’s most sought-after bodies and performers and costs millions to produce. In a nutshell, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is not your average event.

The event has mostly been held in New York since its inception in 1995 and features the lingerie giant’s Angels (spokesmodels who have become household names thanks to their career-cementing contracts) strut down the runway in fantastical creations that rarely make it into stores – unless you count its window displays. Joining Angels Candice Swanepoel, Karlie Kloss and Adriana Lima at this year at the Earls Court Exhibition Centre are rumoured to be London girls Cara Delevingne and Jourdan Dunn.

While the strutting happens, the likes of Justin Bieber, Rihanna and Taylor Swift serenade the audience. The spectacle is then broadcast to millions of viewers across the world.

According to an unnamed source, the tickets come with a hefty price tag that is meant to attract only individuals with a high net worth. That’s assuming these people have the classy personality to fit the event’s star-studded guest list. Although a Victoria’s Secret executive says no one is yet authorised to sell tickets to the invite-only extravaganza, highly connected concierge services say they can make it happen for well-paying guests.

A prospect of this sort can be a potential cause for alarm since the privacy of celebrities and high-profile personalities could potentially be jeopardised. After all, what’s to stop aggressive paparazzi or undesirables from purchasing their own tickets and disrupting the peace at such an otherwise fun event? Given the unpredictable nature of these threats, high-profile people would be wise to invest in London security services.

A reputable London close protection service provider like Westminster Security employs highly trained former police and military security personnel to serve as bodyguards for high-net-worth clients. With superior protection at hand, celebrities and other high-profile individuals can set their minds at ease knowing that they are safe at whatever function or after-party they attend.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/private-security-services-london-shine-star-studded-events/

London Security Guards Maintain Safety in Luxurious Establishments

As one of the most popular fashion capitals of the world, London is home to several respected designer brands including Burberry, Mulberry, Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, Tom Ford, and Paul Smith. With these powerhouse firms based in the heart of Great Britain, it does not come as a surprise that conglomerate Condé Nast wants to expand its magazine-inspired hospitality brands in the city, as reported by Matthew Chapman for Marketing Magazine:

Condé Nast could launch its GQ, Vogue and Tatler branded-restaurants and bars in London within a couple of years as it explores ways of extending its brands throughout the hospitality industry. 

The Condé Nast International Restaurants division of the publishing company is already running five up-market restaurants and bars in Moscow, Dubai, and Kiev, but is about to extend the initiative into Bangkok and Kazakhstan.

Gary Robinson, director of restaurants at Condé Nast International Restaurants, said: “For me London is the ultimate goal, it is where we ought to be. And in the same vein we ought to be in Paris, Milan and New York. It is something we are working towards.” 

Robinson hopes there could be a London launch “within the next couple of years” depending on Condé Nast finding the right licensing partner and location.

A lot of prominent personalities like Vogue’s Anna Wintour, as well as celebrities like Kate Moss and Daisy Lowe, frequently fly to London for exclusive events such as London Fashion Week and other gatherings, together with many local socialites. Such events are often held in iconic venues where professional London security guards are tasked to maintain safety and order.

Luxurious establishments like the planned Condé Nast restaurants fit the profile of places that important people would visit, and such locations would certainly need exceptional security in London provided by experienced firms such as Westminster Security. As the city continues to attract rich, famous, influential, and powerful individuals, many high-end locations would have to rely on these dependable security services to ensure that VIPs and other guests are sufficiently protected during social events.

Private security firms employ highly trained professionals who will constantly monitor the vicinity and adjacent sections of luxurious establishments. Moreover, they can sweep party venues in advance to ensure that there are no threats that could disrupt glamorous functions and gatherings. They act as a visual and physical deterrent to any undesirables, as well as providing a friendly front of house point of contact for VIP’s and customers.

Luxury restaurants and event venues alike, need to employ reliable security services. A lack of order and security might result in mishaps or bad publicity. Having a reputable private security firm as a partner would be beneficial in maintaining the peace and reputation of high-class establishment.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/london-security-guards-maintain-safety-luxurious-establishments/

Residential Security in London: Arm Your Home and Self against Harm

Stalking incidents can get out of hand. Sometimes, aside from getting close to you, an over friendly fan or ‘friend’ may indeed wish to harm you and steal from you.

One such incident happened to an Oscar-winning celebrity recently when a stalker was able to break through the high barb wire-topped fences, avoiding the surveillance system that supposedly kept her home safe. The Daily Mail features the story on Mail Online:

It has been revealed that Hollywood actress Sandra Bullock only realised a stalker was in her home when she came face-to-face with him outside her bedroom door.

When Sandra got up to lock the door to her bedroom, the starlet saw ‘Corbett right there in the hallway wearing dark clothing’ and preceded to the slam the door shut and lock it before calling police to report the intruder.

Joshua James Corbett, 39, was filmed by Good Morning America while in court last month, where he was charged with felony counts of residential burglary, stalking and possession of a machine gun, report CNN. He was not thought to have the machine gun on him at the time of the break-in and Sandra’s adopted son, Louis, was believed to be with a nanny.

Various other celebrities have experienced similar incidents, Madonna being one of them. In 1996, a stalker who threatened to either marry her or slash her throat, scaled her Hollywood Hills home. Fortunately, the iconic 80s star was unscathed as her bodyguard took evasive action.

You don’t have to be rich and famous to have manned security at your home, anyone can benefit from hiring residential security in London. According to data from a MoneySupermarket.com report, quite a number of ‘trendy neighbourhoods’ and city districts were included in the list of top 20 British postcodes where burglary was most prevalent. Take the case of a home in Melton that was ransacked just recently. The married couple who owned the property were away on holiday when a burglar broke in and took about £40,000 worth of possessions, including expensive heirlooms, jewellery, electronic equipment, and their car.

If you are considering improving your residential security in London, you can get a highly trained security guard in London for static or mobile patrols of your home and neighbourhood. A private security company like Westminster Security employs experienced professionals from backgrounds in the Police and Armed Forces, who will keep a close eye on you and your home to ward off any undesirables who may wish to do you harm.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/residential-security-london-arm-home-self-harm/

Overseas Visitors Commend Close Protection Security in London

                                 

At Westminster Security, a number of international customers regularly rely on our close protection security services whenever they visit London for business. While our company is proud to be able to maintain great working relationships with many of our long-term clients, it’s always a pleasure to see new customers approach us for assistance with their private security in London.

In June, our company was honoured to have been chosen to protect two new high profile, international customers. Both tasks were an astounding successes, with each of our principals commending the efficiency and professionalism exhibited by our skilled team of close protection operatives.

Both parties to our beautiful city were here for entirely different reasons, but both required complete protection from our team around the clock. As with all our clients, Westminster Security pulled out all the stops and provided them with a detail comprised of members with backgrounds in the Royal Military Police and the United Kingdom Special Forces divisions of the British Armed Forces.

On the road, both principals chose to be transported in our Rolls-Royce Phantom, accompanied by their bodyguard we supplied. The personal escort section team assigned to them, on the other hand, used our Range Rover Autobiography as a backing vehicle. Both chauffeurs of those vehicles were advanced drivers with vast experience in security chauffeuring in London and around the world, the clients knew they were in safe hands.

Both principals took up temporary residence in one of London’s five-star hotels, and our team took charge of sweeping and securing their accommodation daily. Working with the in-house security team of the prestigious hotel, our close protection operatives were admired for the manners and discretion they afforded the hotel staff, and our principals as well. In fact, we were later approached by the hotel security manager with an offer to supply close protection services to their visiting VIPs in the future, and we were naturally pleased to affirm their request.

As a result of our clients’ satisfaction with our services, the principals committed to using us in the future, for the duration of their visits to London and the UK. Westminster Security is proud of the trust that our new clients, and even the hotel we stayed at, have afforded us. It was certainly our pleasure to have worked with them and look forward to being able to assist them again in the future.

We invite other groups and individuals who would like to experience the unique brand of protection only Westminster Security can provide to visit our website, WestminsterSecurity.co.uk, to identify the services that most fit their needs. Aside from close protection, we are also able and equipped to provide event security, private investigation, surveillance, residential security, and retail security in London.

Please contact us to see how we can assist you.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/close-protection/

Got Your Back: Private Security in London for the U.K.’s Rich and Famous

Demand for residential and WAG (wife-and-girlfriend) security seems to have spiked in the days prior to the World Cup. Most of their clients, rather unsurprisingly, were football players.

Jeremy Armstrong and Andy Lines of the Daily Mirror believe these players learned their lessons the last time they left their homes unprotected while out-of-town. Team captain Steven Gerrard had his Formby home ransacked in 2007 while leading Liverpool to a 1-0 victory over Marseille. The burglar has been serving time behind bars for more than seven years now.

Luckily, security is one of the perks of playing for a football club like Liverpool or Manchester United. These clubs have close ties to local security companies to make sure their members’ homes are safe, allowing them to focus on the games ahead. You can say that private security in London is a contributing factor in helping the national football team win.

Still a Serious Issue

Data from the Metropolitan Police reports a drop in residential burglaries across London by 11.4 percent. Nevertheless, cases still number in the tens of thousands; from 59,896 in May, 2013 to 53,038 in May, 2014. Furthermore, several boroughs like Hackney and Bexley report the highest rate of increase in these crimes.

It’s interesting to know that Hackney is home to a number of affluent homes but is often troubled by crime. Notwithstanding gun crime, armed robberies aren’t uncommon in this part of London. Homes in high-risk areas warrant London security guards like those from Westminster Security to protect property, people, possessions and personal wealth.

Popularity Factor

Popularity may as well be a risk factor at this point. Aside from football players, stars are also prime targets for burglars. In 2012, Bernie Ecclestone, known in tabloid media as F1 Supremo, was given a black eye in exchange for the £200,000 stolen from him. The culprits are currently serving their 53-year collective sentence but weren’t convicted of assaulting Ecclestone.

Along with other cases, this highlights the need for round-the-clock protection inside and outside homes. There’s even the need for security guards to go undercover. In a more recent example, it was revealed that Emma Watson’s friend during her graduation at Brown University was actually tasked with keeping the actress safe (although the reason remains unclear).

Security is a right that people from all walks of life share. Security guards will always have your back, so you can keep looking forward.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/got-back-private-security-london-u-k-s-rich-famous/

Celebrities seek protection from stalkers through ex-Police & Military Bodyguards

Being a celebrity can be a fun and exciting lifestyle, however all that fame and exposure can attract unwanted attention by undesirables. More and more celebs are employing ‘bodyguards’ also known as close protection to keep them safe from obsessive fans. Nadia Mendoza of the Express focuses on a recent situation:

“UNFORTUNATELY life doesn't quite imitate art for Emma Watson, and she cannot fly off on a broomstick if ever she falls in danger.

Instead, the Harry Potter actress has hired a former NYPD officer to act as a bodyguard – for the spellbinding sum of £90,000.

The 23-year-old has taken the extreme measure of personal protection after a recent incident while shooting her latest film left her shaken and fearing for her life.

Emma, who shot to fame as Hermione Granger in the JK Rowling film franchise, was filming for Darren Aronofsky-directed movie Noah.

While on location in Oyster Bay, Long Island, an obsessive fan managed to dupe studio security and venture onto set.”

The circumstances which have hounded one of Britain’s most popular young actresses, will be all to familiar to many young celebrities, as fans feel evermore attached to their favourite stars due to the popularity, and personal nature of social media. ‘The Protection of Freedoms Act 2012′ formally criminalised stalking and the National Stalking Clinic at the Chase Farm Hospital in Enfield, North London; claims to process up to 50 convicted stalkers a year. When you feel that your fame has reached a certain level or even that you feel concerned for your personal safety, it is time to seek professional assistance and hire private security. All to often, stars leave it too late, only employing close protection after there has been an indecent.

Watson recognised the fan because he kept loitering outside her house and had followed her on multiple occasions. This is not the first time she had a dedicated stalker, a mid-20s man was often present at open lectures during her stay at Headington School many years ago, which prompted intervention from security personnel.

People seeking the protection of a security guard in London will be more confident of the operative’s background if it included service in the military or police forces. Watson’s bodyguard, Denise Morrone, served many years at the 122nd Precinct in Staten Island, NY.

Simple “random encounters” have the potential to escalate into tense situations, a security contractor can stay on top of it by using private investigators to gather more intelligence. The compiled material can be turned over to the police for further action. An insider in Watson’s camp says a potential kidnapping threat exists due to her estimated net worth of £23 million.

Stalkers are unpredictable and dangerous, there’s a fine line between being a ‘super-fan’ and a stalker. Fortunately, the danger is avoidable when you have a company such as Westminster Security by your side.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/security-through-in-london-contractors-adequate-against-stalker-swarm/