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What Is A Security Guard Daily Activity Report(DAR)?

Mark Schneider

Understanding of a Security Guard Daily Activity Report

In the security industry, the Daily Activity Report (DAR) is an essential document that serves as a comprehensive record of a security guard’s shift. Whether handwritten or digitized, this report ensures that all relevant activities, observations, and incidents are meticulously logged. It acts as a critical tool for accountability, communication, and review in maintaining the safety and security of a property.

The Role of the Daily Activity Report

The primary function of a DAR is to record the minute-to-minute activities and notable occurrences during a security guard’s shift. It serves multiple purposes:

  1. Accountability: It holds the security personnel accountable for their time and actions on duty.
  2. Communication: It acts as a communication tool between successive shifts and supervisory staff, ensuring continuity and awareness.
  3. Legal Documentation: In cases of legal scrutiny or insurance claims, the DAR provides a written record that can prove crucial.

Components of a Daily Activity Report

A comprehensive DAR includes several key elements:

  • Shift Start and End Times: Documents when guards arrive and depart, ensuring they fulfill their contracted hours.
  • Handover Notes: Information passed from the previous shift that might affect the current guard’s duties.
  • Supervisor Memos and Instructions: Any special instructions or updates from supervisors or the contract point of contact.
  • Equipment and Inventory Checks: A checklist of all gear, documents, and badges received or present on post, ensuring that all necessary tools are available and accounted for.
  • Post Conditions: Observations on the state of the guard shack, patrol vehicles, and other facilities.
  • Patrol Logs: Detailed records of foot and vehicle patrols, including times and any observations or incidents noted.
  • Incident Reports: Detailed descriptions of any unusual or significant events, including hazards, vandalism, or emergencies.
  • Communications: Logs of all forms of communication (phone calls, texts, emails, radio) that occurred during the shift.
  • Contacts: Records of interactions with employees, contractors, managers, and emergency personnel.
  • Vehicle Monitoring: Details on any unauthorized or suspicious vehicles on the property.

Best Practices for Writing a Daily Activity Report

Effective DAR writing involves clear, concise, and precise language. Security guards should follow these best practices:

  1. Be Timely: Fill out the report as close to the occurrence of events as possible to ensure accuracy and detail.
  2. Be Objective: Stick to factual, unbiased reporting without personal opinions or assumptions.
  3. Be Thorough: Include all relevant details to paint a complete picture of the shift for anyone reviewing the document.
  4. Use Standardized Formats: Adhere to any provided templates or formats to maintain consistency across reports.

The Impact of Digital Reporting

With advancements in technology, many organizations are moving from handwritten reports to digital platforms. Digital reporting offers several advantages:

  • Efficiency: Faster input and transmission of reports.
  • Accuracy: Time-stamping and location tagging enhance the accuracy of logs.
  • Accessibility: Easier storage and retrieval of past reports for review or audits.
  • Integration: Ability to integrate with other security management tools for a holistic security approach.

Operation Security Of A DAR

Maintaining operational security (OPSEC) and personal security (PERSEC) in the context of a Daily Activity Report (DAR) is paramount to safeguard sensitive information that could compromise the safety and integrity of the security operations. The DAR should be handled with strict confidentiality, accessible only to authorized personnel to prevent any potential security breaches. Guards should be trained to omit or generalize sensitive data that might identify specific routines, technologies, or vulnerabilities unless such detail is essential and securely communicated. Additionally, all digital copies of the DAR should be encrypted and stored securely, while physical copies should be kept under lock and key. By enforcing these rigorous standards, the organization ensures that its security practices remain robust and its personnel protected from potential threats.

Example Of A Daily Activity Report

Daily Activity Report (DAR) for a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on a Timeline

Security Guards: John Doe & Emily Turner
Date: April 11, 2024
Shifts:

  • John Doe: 08:00 – 16:00
  • Emily Turner: 08:00 – 16:00
    Location: Downtown City DMV

Timeline of Activities

07:55 – Shift Start:

  • John and Emily arrive on duty. They are briefed by outgoing guard, Lisa Smith, about a suspicious vehicle near the rear parking lot from the previous evening.

08:00 – Facility Walkthrough and Equipment Check:

  • Both guards conduct an initial walkthrough of the facility.
  • Confirm all necessary equipment is operational:
  • Radios, flashlights, and incident report forms.

08:15 – Supervisor Communication:

  • John receives and reviews a memo from the supervisor regarding an alert for potential vehicle registration fraud attempts, shares the information with Emily.

08:30 – Foot Patrol:

  • Emily conducts the first hourly foot patrol focusing on the waiting areas and application counters.
  • John checks the external security features and parking lot.

09:30 – Incident Handling:

  • Emily notices and reports a spill in the public waiting area near Seat 12. Maintenance informed for cleanup.

10:00 – Maintenance Follow-Up:

  • Emily confirms cleanup of spill in waiting area.

10:45 – Suspicious Activity Observation:

  • John approaches and verifies an individual taking multiple photos inside the facility; deemed non-threatening after conversation.

11:00 – Vehicle Patrol:

  • Emily conducts the first bi-hourly patrol around the parking lot and perimeter, focusing on the rear parking lot based on the previous day’s briefing.

12:00 – Lunch Break Coordination:

  • John and Emily coordinate lunch breaks and area coverage with each other and the rest of the security team via text.

13:20 – Alarm Response:

  • Both guards respond to an alarm at the rear emergency exit; reset the alarm and secure the area after finding the door ajar.

14:00 – Vehicle Patrol:

  • John conducts the second bi-hourly patrol. Checks perimeter and all vehicle entries.

14:55 – Vehicle Incident Management:

  • Emily issues a reminder notice to a driver of a vehicle parked in a no-parking zone near the front entrance.

15:00 – Manager Communication:

  • Both guards discuss the day’s observations with the facility manager, highlighting the need for no-photography signage.

16:00 – Shift End:

  • John and Emily conduct an end-of-shift briefing with incoming guard, Michael Lee, highlighting key observations and ongoing monitoring areas.

16:05 – Departure:

  • Both guards complete their shifts and depart from duty.

Additional Logs

  • Phone Communications: Logged calls regarding operational hours and ID requirements.
  • Email Communications: Detailed incident report of suspicious activity at 10:45 sent to the supervisor by John.
  • Radio Communications: Regular check-ins performed throughout the shift by both guards.
  • Contacts with Personnel: Interactions logged with DMV employees, IT contractors, and discussed security protocols with Emily taking the lead.

Guard Signatures: John Doe, Emily Turner
Supervisor Review and Signature: [Supervisor’s Name and Signature]

Conclusion

The Daily Activity Report is a vital tool in the security management arsenal. By providing a detailed account of a security guard’s shift, it ensures that all aspects of a property’s security are monitored, managed, and communicated effectively. As security challenges evolve, so too will the methods of reporting, with digital solutions leading the way in enhancing the efficacy and reliability of these crucial documents.

What Are Security Guard POST Orders? A Comprehensive Guide

Mark Schneider

Understanding Security Guard POST Orders: A Comprehensive and Detailed Guide

In the realm of security services, POST (Position Orders for Security Tasks) orders serve as a crucial operational manual for security personnel. These documents detail the specific duties, responsibilities, protocols, and expectations required of security guards, ensuring that every action taken is both effective and consistent with the client’s needs. Here’s an exhaustive breakdown of what POST orders encompass and why they are indispensable in security management.

What are POST Orders?

POST orders are meticulously crafted documents that provide security guards with the necessary guidance to perform their duties effectively. They cover every aspect of a guard’s role, including:

  • Who: Identifies which guards are responsible for specific tasks.
  • What: Lists the tasks and duties guards are expected to perform.
  • Where: Specifies the locations where duties should be carried out.
  • When: Details shift hours and the timing for specific tasks such as patrols.
  • Why: Explains the purpose of each task, enhancing guard understanding and compliance.

Comprehensive Details in POST Orders

1. Operational Duties and Routine Tasks

  • Daily Activity Reports: Guards must record all observations and incidents to maintain a log of daily activities.
  • Patrols: Instructions on patrol routes, times, and frequency are provided to ensure all areas are monitored effectively.
  • Access Control: Manages the entry and exit of individuals to prevent unauthorized access.
  • CCTV Monitoring: Guards are tasked with operating and monitoring CCTV systems to ensure ongoing surveillance.

2. Special Instructions and Situational Protocols

  • BOLOs (Be On the Look Out): Alerts about specific individuals or activities to watch for.
  • Trespass Orders: Guidelines on how to handle unauthorized individuals.
  • Situational Awareness: Instructions to maintain high alertness and recognize potential threats.

3. Emergency and Safety Protocols

  • Evacuation Policy: Detailed routes and procedures for safely evacuating the premises in emergencies.
  • Active Shooter Procedures: Actions to take if an active shooter is present.
  • Natural Disaster Responses: Specific steps for handling fires, floods, tornadoes, and other natural events.
  • First Aid Response Policies: Guidelines for providing basic medical care until professional help arrives.

4. Communication and Documentation

  • Communication Procedure: Protocols for internal communication and coordination with external bodies.
  • Report Writing Expectations: Standards for documenting incidents, ensuring reports are thorough and accurate.
  • Supervisor and Emergency Contact Information: Contact details for supervisors and emergency personnel are listed for quick reference.

5. Equipment and Uniform Standards

  • Uniform Requirements: Standards for uniforms to ensure guards are identifiable and professional.
  • Authorized Firearms and Less Lethal Equipment: Lists permissible weapons and tools that guards may carry.

6. Legal and Ethical Compliance

  • Use of Force Policy: Outlines conditions under which guards can apply physical force.
  • Detainment Policy: Guidelines on how and when guards can detain individuals.
  • Company Policies: Includes broader company policies on ethics and conduct.

The Importance of POST Orders

POST orders are not just procedural manuals but are foundational tools that enhance security efficiency and accountability. They provide guards with the knowledge and authority to act confidently and competently in both routine and emergency scenarios. By establishing clear expectations, POST orders help minimize risks and enhance overall safety for properties, assets, and individuals.

Example Of Security Guard POST Orders:

Enhanced Sample POST Orders for a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Facility

Facility Overview:

The Department of Motor Vehicles office addressed in this document provides services such as vehicle registrations, driver licensing, and testing. It experiences a high volume of public traffic, necessitating robust security measures.

Operational Hours:

The DMV operates Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Security Personnel:

This facility is guarded by two trained security professionals. Guard A is stationed at the main entrance, while Guard B is responsible for external patrols, including vehicle patrols.

Detailed Duties and Responsibilities:

Main Entrance Security (Guard A):

  • Access Control: Strictly monitor and control access at the main entrance. Verify identities and appointments using provided documentation and digital systems. Ensure that entry is allowed only for legitimate purposes.
  • Visitor Management: Direct visitors to appropriate service counters or waiting areas. Manage queue lines to maintain order and efficiency.
  • Surveillance: Constantly monitor the lobby and entrance area for any unusual activities or potential security threats using both direct observation and CCTV systems.
  • Incident Response: Be prepared to respond to any emergencies or confrontations. Use de-escalation techniques where possible and alert Guard B and the supervisor for backup if necessary.

Patrol Duties (Guard B):

  • Regular Patrols: Conduct hourly patrols around the facility’s perimeter and parking areas using the designated security vehicle. Ensure all emergency exits and gates are clear and secure.
  • Security Checks: Check the integrity of physical barriers such as fences and windows during patrols. Report any damage or potential security breaches.
  • Log Keeping: Maintain detailed logs of each patrol, noting the time, observations, and any irregularities or incidents. Vehicle logs should include start and end mileage to track usage.
  • Emergency Assistance: Provide rapid response to any incidents within the outer areas of the DMV, assisting Guard A with crowd control or emergency evacuations as needed.

Communication and Reporting Procedures:

Daily Reporting:

  • Shift Reports: Each guard must compile a comprehensive report at the end of their shift, detailing incidents, the number of visitors, and any security concerns observed.
  • Log Books: Maintain log books at both the main entrance and in the patrol vehicle for real-time incident logging.

Incident Management:

  • Immediate Action: In the event of a security incident, guards must secure the scene, provide immediate assistance, and notify the DMV supervisor and local law enforcement if necessary.
  • Documentation: All incidents must be thoroughly documented with photographs, written descriptions, and any witness statements. These documents should be submitted to the DMV management and kept on file for legal and administrative review.

Emergency and Safety Protocols:

Evacuation Procedure:

  • Role Specific Actions: Guard A will guide visitors and staff to nearest exits. Guard B will check external assembly areas and ensure they are secure and accessible.
  • Training: Both guards will receive regular training on emergency evacuation procedures and use of emergency equipment like fire extinguishers.

Medical Emergencies:

  • First Aid: Both guards are trained in basic first aid and CPR. They will provide immediate care while waiting for emergency medical services when necessary.
  • Equipment: A fully stocked first aid kit will be available at the main entrance and in the patrol vehicle.

Severe Weather and Natural Disasters:

  • Protocol Customization: Specific procedures for handling natural disasters such as tornadoes or severe storms will be outlined, detailing safe zones and communication strategies during such events.

Equipment and Uniform Guidelines:

Uniforms:

  • Specifications: Guards are required to wear prescribed DMV security uniforms, including a badge, name tag, and during night or poor weather conditions, reflective vests for high visibility.

Authorized Equipment:

  • Standard Issue: Guard A will carry a two-way radio, flashlight, and a panic button. Guard B will additionally be equipped with a dashboard camera in the security vehicle.

Supervision and Emergency Contacts:

Supervision:

  • Daily Briefings: Guards will receive daily briefings from the DMV security supervisor detailing specific focus areas or concerns.
  • Continuous Feedback: Guards are encouraged to provide feedback on security measures and suggest improvements based on their daily observations and interactions.

Emergency Contact List:

  • Accessibility: A comprehensive list of contacts including local police, fire services, medical facilities, and utility services will be available at both security stations and in the patrol vehicle.

Conclusion

For businesses employing security services, detailed and well-structured POST orders are critical. They guide security personnel comprehensively in their daily operations and crisis responses, ensuring consistency, legality, and ethical conduct across all tasks. Whether dealing with routine surveillance or emergency situations, POST orders provide a robust framework for maintaining a secure and orderly environment.

Understanding and implementing these orders is paramount in achieving not just the security of a premise but also the confidence and trust of those it serves. With these detailed guides, security guards are better equipped to protect and serve with utmost efficiency and professionalism.

Massad Ayoob’s Five Point Checklist

Mark Schneider

Navigating the Aftermath: What To Tell 911 & The Police

Massad Ayoob (2018)

In the daunting scenario where self-defense necessitates the use of a weapon, the immediate aftermath is fraught with legal and ethical complexities. Understanding the steps to take following such an incident is crucial, not only for your physical safety but also for navigating the intricate legal landscape that follows. Massad Ayoob, an esteemed authority on self-defense and use-of-force law, has developed a comprehensive five-point checklist that serves as an essential guide during these critical moments.

Massad Ayoob isn’t just any expert; he’s a highly respected figure in the realm of self-defense, often called upon as an expert witness in court cases involving use of force. His advice stems from decades of experience, and he emphasizes the importance of being well-prepared for the potential legal aftermath of a self-defense situation. One of his foundational pieces of advice is to always carry a means of communication, akin to a police officer’s radio. In the event of a self-defense incident, being the first to report the crime is imperative. It allows you to frame the incident from your perspective, identifying yourself as the victim to the authorities right from the start.

Ayoob’s evolution in thought regarding post-incident communication with law enforcement is particularly noteworthy. Initially subscribing to the widely shared advice of remaining silent, Ayoob’s extensive experience in the courtroom has led him to advocate for a more nuanced approach. His observations have revealed that complete silence can sometimes cast the self-defender in a suspicious light, potentially complicating their legal defense.

The checklist offered by Ayoob is designed to help navigate the immediate aftermath of a self-defense incident with clarity and purpose. It includes:

  1. Clarification of the Active Dynamic: This involves clearly articulating the threat that led to the use of force. It’s important to distinguish between the act of self-defense and the attacker’s aggression that precipitated it. By focusing on the aggressor’s actions—whether it was an attack on you or a loved one, or an armed threat—you establish the foundation of your defensive response.
  2. Indication of Willingness to Cooperate: While it’s crucial to communicate your intention to cooperate with law enforcement, Ayoob advises caution in how this is done. Initially, offering to provide a complaint or a preliminary statement is advisable, deferring more detailed accounts until after legal consultation. This balance asserts your position as the victim while safeguarding your rights.
  3. Identification of Evidence: Ayoob emphasizes the importance of pointing out physical evidence before it can be displaced or overlooked. From shell casings to weapons and other items involved in the incident, ensuring these are noted and preserved can be crucial to accurately reconstructing the event.
  4. Identification of Witnesses: In the chaos following a self-defense incident, witnesses may be reluctant to come forward. Identifying these individuals to law enforcement can be pivotal in securing testimonies that support your account of self-defense.
  5. Request for Legal Representation: Before providing detailed statements or signing any documents, requesting an attorney is imperative. This ensures that your rights are protected and that you navigate the subsequent legal process with expert guidance.

Implementing Massad Ayoob’s Five-Point Checklist: A Scenario Analysis

In a hypothetical scenario where you find yourself in a parking garage late at night, you are suddenly confronted by an individual armed with a knife, threatening your safety. With no other viable option for self-preservation, you use your legally carried handgun to defend yourself, resulting in the assailant being incapacitated. Now, with the immediate threat neutralized, you are faced with the crucial next steps.

Calling 911, The First Phone Call You Should Make

When faced with the necessity of calling 911 after a self-defense situation, it’s critical to convey essential information quickly and clearly, then conclude the call so you can focus on your safety until help arrives. Here’s a concise guide on what to say:

  1. Identify Yourself: Start with your name. “My name is [Your Name].”
  2. State the Situation: Briefly explain what happened. “I was attacked and was in immediate danger of death or serious injury, and I had to defend myself.”
  3. Provide Your Description: Give a quick description of yourself to prevent any confusion about who the victim is when help arrives. “I am a [male/female], age [Your Age], ethnicity [Your Ethnicity], and I am wearing [Your Clothing].”
  4. Give Your Location: Clearly state where you are. “I am at [Your Location].”
  5. Request Assistance: Ask for both police and ambulance to ensure that all bases are covered. “Please send police and an ambulance to this location. Please hurry!”
  6. Conclude the Call: After providing the necessary information, conclude the call. “I Need To Go!.” And then hang up. It’s advised not to stay on the line with 911, as you might need to focus on your immediate safety or deal with ongoing threats. You also don’t want to make any statements that could incriminate yourself.

This framework ensures that you provide the 911 operator with all the essential information they need to dispatch the correct emergency services to your location promptly, while also setting the stage for your self-defense claim right from the first point of contact with authorities.

Massad Ayoob’s five-point checklist, as you interact with the responding police officer

Follow All Commands Of Law Enforcement When They arrive: When the officer arrives, make sure to heed and execute all instructions. If feasible, I suggest placing your firearm securely in its holster or another safe location before their arrival. You might be instructed to lie on the ground, place your hands behind your back, and be handcuffed. Officers must ensure the scene is secure for themselves and other first responders before beginning their investigation. Remember, this is not a personal matter, and it’s crucial to comply with their commands. Now is not the moment for debate or to make statements.

  1. Clarify the Active Dynamic: When it comes time when the Officer asks “What Happened”, clarify your role in the incident. “Officer, I was attacked by that individual with a knife. I was in danger for my life and had to defend myself.” This direct statement sets the foundation of the encounter, emphasizing your defensive response to an unprovoked attack, making it clear that your actions were a last resort.
  2. Signal Your Cooperation: You express your intention to cooperate, highlighting your status as the victim. “I understand the seriousness of this situation and I’m willing to help with the investigation. However, I’d like to consult with my attorney before making a detailed statement.” This shows your readiness to assist while also protecting your legal rights, a crucial step in ensuring your narrative is properly understood.
  3. Highlight Critical Evidence: Without tampering with the scene, you point out relevant evidence to the officer. “The knife the attacker used is over there. I haven’t touched anything.” By directing attention to the weapon and any other pertinent evidence, you help solidify your account of self-defense, ensuring the physical facts align with your explanation.
  4. Identify Witnesses: If you noticed anyone in the vicinity who might have witnessed the altercation, you mention this to the officer. “There might have been a few people around who saw what happened. I think someone was near the stairwell.” Identifying potential witnesses can be crucial in substantiating your version of events, providing additional viewpoints that support your self-defense claim.
  5. Request Legal Representation: Finally, you affirm your right to legal counsel. “I need to speak to my lawyer. I am invoking my right to remain silent and I am not answering anymore questions or making anymore statements.” This is not an admission of guilt but a prudent step to safeguard your rights and ensure that your self-defense actions are accurately represented in any legal proceedings.

Only say this once! You may even ask for a Supervisor before saying this!

This scenario illustrates the practical application of Massad Ayoob’s five-point checklist when directly interacting with law enforcement after a self-defense incident. It emphasizes the importance of clear communication, evidential integrity, witness collaboration, and legal protection in the crucial moments following a defensive action.

Beyond these steps, Ayoob highlights the psychological and physiological effects that can influence one’s perception during a violent encounter. He notes the common occurrence of tunnel vision, altered time perception, and the impact of adrenaline, all of which can affect how the event is recalled and reported. Understanding these factors is crucial in articulating your experience to law enforcement and legal representatives.

Massad Ayoob’s guidance underscores the complexity of self-defense incidents, advocating for a prepared and informed approach to the aftermath. His checklist not only aims to safeguard the physical well-being of the defender but also navigates the potential legal ramifications with strategic foresight.