Close protection officers and other security professionals play a vital role in protecting not only famous figures and those in the public eye but also members of the public who may have aggressive or dangerous situations to face where it would be lethal to do so alone. This article explores the role and functions of security professionals.
To most people the idea of protection seems bizarre and a system dedicated solely to those with power, status and most importantly money. However, this is not always the case although it is predominantly used by people in these positions. Obviously there is not a massive demand for close protection in general society, however if a person feels in danger then it is perfectly acceptable.
Contrary to popular belief, close protection is a lot more affordable than you would think, it can suit may budgets not just those of the affluent. Depending on your requirements you should be able to find protection services that are specifically suited to your needs. Officers can be hired to simply escort someone of importance to an event, or an individual or family unit may require close protection 24 hours a day 7 days a week for a number of reasons in which case an officer can be hired to live in the house. The other factors that will affect the cost will include how much time you needed the protection for and also the area you live in, if you live in an area where there is a higher threat then the price will probably be higher. In order to get a precise figure then you have to shop around and get individual quotes from companies as it is a niche service and every ob is different.
Quite often close protection services will supply a team of professionals, most often in situations involving large events or crowds close protection in London of people. While the team will work effectively as a combined unit, each member will bring a specialist skill to the team, such as:
The Bodyguard Bodyguards are highly trained and a product of a rigorous training program.
They are fully equipped to deal with a full range of scenario, from close quarters personal attacks to controlling and navigating mass crowds of people.
The Driver Security drivers must have a wealth of skill and expertise behind the wheel of a car in order to maneuver through hazardous situations and evade potential threats.
Quite often this may mean navigating unusually restrictive spaces or terrains at high speeds, while keeping their passengers safe at all times.
The Spotter Spotters are essentially the eyes of the unit, their job is to blend in to their surroundings in an undercover capacity, relaying any signs of suspect activity back to the bodyguards or drivers. They will also position the bodyguards accordingly to keep the area as safe as possible. The spotters are the first line of pre-empting a threat, and if they do their job correctly all threats can be neutralized before the client is put in any direct danger.
Due to the media there is a stereotypical view of a close protection operative when in actual fact they can be very difficult to identify in everyday society. They will be more low-profile while still maintaining their role and ensuring the individual is protected at all times.
So, while the rich and influential probably require close protection more than others due to the fact that they have more that others may want, the service is not limited to them. If you are at risk, whether it be by being involved in a high-profile court case through no fault of your own, or if a person you know has been threatening towards you and you’re worried they may put these threats into action, then close protection could be the answer. It is not money that determines whether you need close protection or not, it is the severity of the situation you find yourself in.