In today’s ever-changing world, security guards play an indispensable role in maintaining safety and order across various sectors. These individuals often find themselves in high-pressure situations where quick thinking and adept action are crucial. To equip security guards with the right skills and knowledge, wear and carry training stands out as a vital component. This comprehensive training not only ensures the safety of the guards but also enhances their ability to protect the establishments they serve.

Understanding the Significance of Wear & Carry Training

The Crucial Role of Security Guards

Security guards are the front-line defenders of premises, individuals, and valuable assets. They don’t just observe; they often need to swiftly respond to emergencies, de-escalate tensions, and even deter threats using specialized equipment.

The Essence of Wear & Carry Training

Wear and carry training encompasses a range of crucial skills, including firearms handling, non-lethal weapons proficiency, self-defense tactics, and situational awareness. It aims to arm security guards with the expertise needed to tackle diverse challenges effectively.

Key Components of Wear & Carry Training

Firearms Proficiency: Precision and Safety

Training in firearms handling is one of the central pillars of wear and carry training. Guards learn the fundamentals of using firearms, focusing on accuracy, safety protocols, and decision-making under pressure. They undergo rigorous practice sessions and simulations to ensure competence and confidence in handling firearms responsibly.

Non-Lethal Weapons Training: Effective Use in Diverse Situations

Apart from firearms, security guards are often equipped with non-lethal weapons like stun guns, batons, and pepper spray. Training in these tools is essential to ensure guards understand their proper use, minimizing harm while still effectively neutralizing potential threats.

Self-Defense Techniques: Physical Competence and Confidence

Wear and carry training also includes self-defense techniques tailored to real-world scenarios. Guards learn hand-to-hand combat, restraint techniques, and how to protect themselves and others in physical altercations. Mastery of these skills not only bolsters their confidence but also provides a crucial means of defense in unarmed encounters.

Situational Awareness: The Key to Proactive Security

Being vigilant and perceptive is a cornerstone of effective security. Through wear and carry training, guards are taught to analyze environments, spot potential threats, and take preemptive measures to mitigate risks. This heightened awareness helps in preventing security breaches before they escalate.

Benefits of Comprehensive Wear & Carry Training

Enhanced Security Measures: A Safer Environment

Well-trained security guards contribute significantly to creating a secure environment. Their proficiency in handling diverse situations and tools ensures a swift and effective response to any potential threats, minimizing risks to the establishment and its occupants.

Reduced Liability and Risk Management

By ensuring that security guards are well-versed in proper procedures and equipped with necessary skills, wear and carry training aids in minimizing risks. It reduces the chances of accidents or mishandling of security-related tools, thereby decreasing liabilities for the employing organization.

Community Engagement and Trust in Security Contractors

Adequate training not only enhances skills but also boosts the confidence and professionalism of security contractors. Feeling capable and equipped to handle challenging situations positively impacts their performance, fostering a sense of pride and dedication in their roles.

Proficient security guards, through their competence and courteous demeanor, contribute to a positive image of the establishment they serve. This, in turn, helps build trust and rapport within the community, essential for long-term success and safety.

Advanced Training Modules for Specialized Situations

Crisis Management and Response Protocols

In high-stress scenarios like hostage situations, terrorist threats, or natural disasters, security guards need specialized training. Crisis management training equips them with protocols to handle these critical situations effectively. From communication strategies to evacuation procedures, this training ensures guards can coordinate responses seamlessly during emergencies, minimizing potential risks.

Conflict Resolution and De-escalation Techniques

De-escalation skills are fundamental for security guards to defuse tense situations without resorting to force. This training focuses on communication strategies, empathy, and conflict resolution techniques. Guards learn how to assess situations, manage emotions, and employ verbal tactics to peacefully resolve conflicts, averting potential escalation.

Surveillance and Technology Integration

With technological advancements, security measures have evolved. Guards receive training in utilizing surveillance systems, understanding alarm systems, and implementing other technological tools effectively. Integrating these technologies with their existing skills enhances their ability to monitor and respond to potential threats more efficiently

Ongoing Training and Continuous Improvement Initiatives

Regular Drills and Simulations

Training shouldn’t end with the initial sessions. Regular drills and simulations are imperative to keep the skills of security guards sharp. These exercises mimic real-life scenarios, allowing guards to practice their learned skills, refine their responses, and adapt to evolving threats.

Continuing Education and Skill Refinement

The security landscape is constantly evolving, and thus, ongoing education is vital. Security guards should engage in continuous learning, attending workshops, seminars, or courses to stay updated on the latest security trends, laws, and technological advancements.

Performance Evaluations and Feedback Mechanisms

Performance evaluations provide insights into the effectiveness of training programs and individual guard performance. Constructive feedback mechanisms help identify areas for improvement and provide support where necessary, ensuring a constant cycle of learning and enhancement.

Security guards must operate within legal frameworks and ethical boundaries. Training on laws, regulations, and ethical standards is crucial to ensure guards are aware of their rights, limitations, and responsibilities while performing their duties.

Final Thoughts

Wear and carry training serve as the backbone for empowering security guards with the skills necessary to perform their duties effectively. Emphasizing firearms proficiency, non-lethal weapons training, self-defense tactics, and situational awareness equips guards to tackle diverse challenges confidently. Recognizing the significance of such training showcases a commitment to valuing the individuals safeguarding our spaces. Investing in continuous improvement through wear and carry training is not just an investment in security but also a testament to ensuring safety, proficiency, and peace of mind for all involved in security services.

Chad Emrick

Scheduling Adminstrator

As Scheduling Administrator, Chad leverages twenty years of administrative and management experience to enhance Defender One’s operational excellence. For Chad, the scheduling process is like putting together a puzzle—finding just the right pieces to fill every slot. His strategic mindset and knack for process optimization have consistently elevated his organizational efficiency. The security industry is 24/7. Thus, Chad’s methodical preparation and adaptable management style keeps our operations running smoothly.

When not orchestrating schedules at Defender One, Chad dedicates himself to his treasured role— a devoted family man. He and his wife Wanda have raised four remarkable children. Most recently, adding a new dimension to his life’s joy is his grandson, Leo.

Phil Kline

Regional Manager – Baltimore Metro Region

Phil’s career began in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Military Police Officer. His training as an Internal Response Unit member equipped him with essential skills in safety, security, and crisis management. One of his most fulfilling experiences was responding to Hurricane Sandy, where he played a vital role in assisting those affected by the disaster.

Following his military service, Phil transitioned to the building supply industry, where he spent a decade as an Operations and Sales Manager. During this time, he honed his leadership, process improvement, and industry analysis skills. His passion for identifying opportunities and driving positive change has been a constant throughout his career.

With a strong foundation in problem-solving and a resilient mindset, Phil is dedicated to applying his expertise to create impactful solutions. Whether leading teams, optimizing processes, or tackling complex challenges, he approaches every task with integrity and a focus on results.

Outside of work, Phil is an avid motorcyclist and enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and camping. One of his most memorable adventures was conquering the challenging hike to the top of Angels Landing in Zion National Park, Utah.

Walter Leslie Jr.

Operations Manager

Walter is an observant and vigilant, safety-driven security professional with 14+ years of leadership experience across commercial, residential, and corporate security sectors. Walter offers extensive expertise in developing and executing comprehensive physical security procedures and protocols. Specializing in risk assessments, he has successfully implemented mitigation strategies for clients, reducing potential security threats.

Outside of work, he is family-oriented and enjoys traveling with his wife Jackie, and their dog Aries. He is an avid sports enthusiast and loves the Washington Commanders and Washington Nationals.

Cynthia Cox

Human Resources Manager

With 21 years of management experience across various industries, including staffing, transportation, small business ownership, accounting, and operations, Cynthia brings a wealth of knowledge and a robust skill set to Defender One. Her diversified background has equipped her with a keen understanding of multiple business domains, making her an invaluable asset to the team.

Matthew Goodman

Assistant Director of Operations
Matt currently serves as Defender One’s Assistant Director of Operations. Matt is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Defender One and works closely with the Director of Operations & Training to implement goals and objectives for the company. As a nationally certified School Resource Officer and Force Science Analyst, Matt brings an interpersonal and holistic approach to the industry. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from York College. Outside of work, Matt is an avid outdoorsmen, spending time perfecting his landscaping skills. Matt also enjoys quality time with his wife Ashley, and two cats, Ollie and Leo, as well as watching the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens.

Jennifer Krieger

Director of Human Resources
Jen currently serves as Defender One’s Director of Human Resources, managing our HR and back end finance teams. Jen has 30 years of experience in healthcare benefits administration, retirement benefits, financial planning and human resources. Jen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Maryland, College Park and a Master’s Degree in Finance from Loyola University. Jen prioritizes an employee focused and driven company, with an emphasis on client and employee satisfaction. Outside of work, Jen enjoys running, watching her daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse, and playing with her grand-dogs.

Jared Krieger

Director of Operations & Training

Jared serves as the Director of Operations & Training at Defender One, where he oversees the company’s operations and staff training programs. He holds a Master of Science in Homeland Security & Disaster Management and a Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security & Counterterrorism. He is a Certified Security Project Manager and is board-certified in security management. He is also board-certified as a Physical Security Professional by the American Society of Industrial Security. As an accredited law enforcement instructor, Jared specializes in multiple disciplines, including Firearms, OC Spray, Expandable Baton, Handcuff Techniques, Taser, Defensive Tactics, and Force Science Analytics.

Outside of work, Jared enjoys traveling and spending time with his girlfriend and their three dogs.

Jon Krieger

Owner
Jon is the President and Founder of Defender One. Jon started Defender One in 2009, with the goal of bridging the gap between conventional security guards and law enforcement. Jon had a long and distinguished career in a large metropolitan police department for over 30 years, holding supervisory positions in several units, including patrol, internal affairs, traffic and community outreach. Jon has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, College Park. Outside of work, Jon spends his time spoiling his grand-dogs Fred and Barney, supporting the Ravens and Orioles, and watching his daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse.