A bodyguard is a kind of security officer, government agent, or military servicemen who defends a public or a specific set of individuals against an attacker or an act of violence. A bodyguard can also be a private security guard hired by a business owner to provide added security and protection for the business or its employees. Bodyguards also serve in the military, for instance, as bodyguards for VIPs. Private bodyguard services are generally hired by businesses to provide protection for their employees or business clients.
Bodyguards also play a key role in the security and defense industry, providing direct support during times of heightened threat or danger such as when public or employees are being threatened. In this regard, most bodyguards carry firearms to provide immediate help if shots are needed. This is essential because police authorities may not have all the resources they need to apprehend potentially dangerous criminals or attackers; hence, a bodyguard’s effective use of a weapon can save lives and provide essential assistance to the subject being attacked.
However, there are also potential security issues relating to bodyguards. While most bodyguards are professionally trained in identifying potential threats, some may lack the required knowledge or training when it comes to evaluating the severity of a situation. When evaluating security personnel, the potential for injury or collateral damage to the public should always be considered. Injuries that occur during a security guard’s duty may be covered by insurance, but when bodyguards themselves are injured during an incident, the client may not be able to cover these costs out of pocket. In cases where the client is responsible for the cost of bodyguard related injuries, it is important that they ensure that they choose a reputable and trustworthy bodyguard agency to employ as bodyguards for their personal or business needs.
Another potential issue relating to bodyguards is when they take an active role in preventing crimes or protecting against threats. While it is certainly understandable that bodyguards must do everything possible to prevent criminal activity and protect their clients, their tactics must always conform to the law and prevent unnecessary encroachment into a subject’s property. Some people believe that if bodyguards prevent crime they are justified in using force in apprehending criminals; however, this reasoning is legally incorrect. By enforcing proper bodyguard policy, bodyguards can prevent crime while respecting the individual rights of the subject involved. This is true whether the security services employed are law enforcement or private security services.
A third issue regards bodyguard liability. This particular liability is more complex than those governing other aspects of bodyguard employment because it is impossible to predict every possible future act of violence or criminal activity. The courts, which have been more hesitant in past years to impose liability on security personnel for incidents beyond the control of the security detail, will likely take more aggressive steps in light of recent high-profile incidents. To prevent being liable for excessive or unnecessary force used in certain instances, bodyguards must develop an understanding of the risk inherent in providing security to a client and adhere to the current standards of bodyguard practice. When bodyguards employ their common sense and exercise good judgment, they can limit these risks and increase the likelihood of limiting exposure to liability for excessive use of force.
Overall, bodyguards may work in conjunction with other security personnel to further their own security needs and responsibilities and to provide a safe environment for the client and his or her family. When bodyguards interact with the public, they are expected to exercise reasonable care in determining the safety and welfare of a subject and his or her family. To meet this responsibility, bodyguard escorts must remain aware of their client’s situation at all times and report any changes immediately to the security detail. In addition, bodyguards may work in conjunction with the police and designated parking lot attendants to ensure that security is consistent throughout a client’s stay.