As technology continues to advance, portable security devices have become an increasingly important and useful tool in executive protection and general security. For decades, portable security technology has been used by law enforcement personnel to protect people and secure property in situations where other security is not possible. In 1968, the voice-activated radio dispatched alarm (VARDA), was invented. It is a portable device that, when activated, will broadcast a message to the dispatch channel, allowing officers to immediately respond to the scene for further investigation. Although the VARDA was originally designed for law enforcement applications such as repeat break-ins, domestic violence issues and metal/equipment theft, its concept has been adapted over time to address a variety of needs in the private sector.
The variety of advancements in the technology have made portable security devices function far beyond their original use, becoming a feasible, reliable and efficient solution, not just for law enforcement, but also for the private sector. Clients of private security firms include government officials, celebrities and entertainers, professional athletes, business executives and others. It is reported that these clients pay anywhere between $250,000 to $1.5 million for security, and perhaps even more in certain cases. With such a high-demand market for private security teams, the application of improved security measures, like portable alarms, into the totality of security service, has been vital in creating a safer and seamless experience.
While the general concept remains the same, today’s technological advancements in wireless sensors have allowed portable security systems to provide greater range to allow more flexibility when securing both property and person. Additionally, today’s equipment can provide multiple outputs for alerting first responders beyond radio. Some systems allow the use of a Bluetooth-enabled cellphone to notify first responders via phone call. Many portable alarms have an array of sensors beyond the usual motion detector which include pressure mats, panic buttons, tilt switches and cameras that can all trigger the alarms to notify the security provider immediately of any potential issue.
Security personnel can use portable alarms to create secure environments through a variety of sensors such as door and window contacts, motion detectors and trip beams. The devices and sensors tend to be relatively user-friendly, so the user can avoid the complications that often accompany the set up and synching of more permanent types of systems. Further, not only are portable alarms easy to setup, but the briefcase-sized equipment is light and easy enough to deploy that it makes it a perfect tool for protecting someone who travels frequently.
For example, if security personnel are responsible for securing a restricted executive hotel floor for a client, the procedure is more manageable with portable security equipment. By setting up door/window contacts on stairwells and motion detectors on elevator bays they can be assured that they will be alerted instantly if someone comes on the floor. This level of notification enables them to be acutely prepared if a situation arises, so their task of ensuring the safety of the designated person or property is extremely well managed.
Whether travelling abroad or securing a personal residence, one of the biggest challenges security personnel face is maintaining a balance of being close enough to protect an important client, while providing them with their own personal space at the same time. Portable alarms usually help balance this issue by offering wireless panic button solutions. These panic buttons have a long enough range that clients can reach their security professional, even if they are down the hall or multiple floors apart. This allows the individual under personal protection the confidence in knowing help is only a button press away and offers them to opportunity to maintain some semblance of privacy.
Portable alarms are a staple in property crime units around the country. Using a similar approach, private sector security personnel acquire these units for loss prevention cases. Portable alarms can be used in cases of internal or external theft, where a temporary setup is required to quickly catch the offender. Particular instances where this is an invaluable resource include inventory theft, or to secure areas with ongoing machinery or building material theft. With a portable alarm, security personnel could be notified immediately and dispatch the proper response to manage the situation.
While the concept started decades ago for law enforcement, thanks to impressive technological advancements, these portable alarms have extensive applications for the private sector. Providing flexibility and versatility to a market that is always evolving, the portable alarm is a tool that can be a great resource for corporate security and executive protection.
