3 answers
Joanna
Student
Beaverton, Oregon
1
Question
Updated
1289 views
what are things you do differently then a cop
meaning like what does a Security do differently then a cop? how much is the pay. how far can your training go.
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3 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Joanna, great question! The roles of a security guard and a police officer have some overlapping elements when it comes to protecting people and property, but there are key differences in responsibilities, training, and authority. 🤔
First the Scope of Responsibility:
Security Guards: Generally work on private property—like malls, office buildings, or events. Their main job is to monitor premises, deter incidents, and report any suspicious activity. They’re often the first line of response and then call in the police if needed.
Police Officers: Enforce laws on a broader scale. They have the authority to make arrests, investigate crimes, and handle emergencies. Their work covers everything from routine patrols to major investigations.
Now Training & Authority:
Security Guards: Training can vary widely but is typically shorter (ranging from a few days to a few weeks). This training often covers basic procedures, conflict resolution, and sometimes first aid or CPR. Their authority is limited—they can usually detain a suspect only briefly until the police arrive.
Police Officers: Undergo much more extensive training at a police academy, often lasting several months. They learn not only physical and tactical skills but also legal procedures, crisis management, and ethics. They have full law enforcement authority under the law.
Theeee Pay:
Security Guards: Compensation can vary by location and the type of facility. In many areas, you might see pay ranging from minimum wage up to around $20 per hour, with additional benefits depending on the employer.
Police Officers: Typically earn a salary that’s considerably higher, which can start from around $40,000 a year and increase with experience, overtime, and promotions. Benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and sometimes educational incentives are also common.
Training and Advancement:
Security Guards: While their initial training is shorter, there are opportunities to specialize (like becoming an armed guard or moving into a supervisory role) with additional certifications and on-the-job experience.
Police Officers: Their career path often includes continuous training and education, with options to move into specialized units (like detective work, SWAT, or community policing) or rise through the ranks to supervisory roles.
In short, if you’re looking at a long-term career in public safety, think about whether you want a role focused on property and personnel protection within a specific environment (security) or one with broader law enforcement responsibilities (police). Each path has its own training requirements and opportunities for advancement, as well as different levels of authority and compensation.
Hope that clears things up for you, Joanna! If you have more questions or want to dive deeper into one of these paths, feel free to ask. You have got this, all the best buddy! 😉🤗
First the Scope of Responsibility:
Security Guards: Generally work on private property—like malls, office buildings, or events. Their main job is to monitor premises, deter incidents, and report any suspicious activity. They’re often the first line of response and then call in the police if needed.
Police Officers: Enforce laws on a broader scale. They have the authority to make arrests, investigate crimes, and handle emergencies. Their work covers everything from routine patrols to major investigations.
Now Training & Authority:
Security Guards: Training can vary widely but is typically shorter (ranging from a few days to a few weeks). This training often covers basic procedures, conflict resolution, and sometimes first aid or CPR. Their authority is limited—they can usually detain a suspect only briefly until the police arrive.
Police Officers: Undergo much more extensive training at a police academy, often lasting several months. They learn not only physical and tactical skills but also legal procedures, crisis management, and ethics. They have full law enforcement authority under the law.
Theeee Pay:
Security Guards: Compensation can vary by location and the type of facility. In many areas, you might see pay ranging from minimum wage up to around $20 per hour, with additional benefits depending on the employer.
Police Officers: Typically earn a salary that’s considerably higher, which can start from around $40,000 a year and increase with experience, overtime, and promotions. Benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and sometimes educational incentives are also common.
Training and Advancement:
Security Guards: While their initial training is shorter, there are opportunities to specialize (like becoming an armed guard or moving into a supervisory role) with additional certifications and on-the-job experience.
Police Officers: Their career path often includes continuous training and education, with options to move into specialized units (like detective work, SWAT, or community policing) or rise through the ranks to supervisory roles.
In short, if you’re looking at a long-term career in public safety, think about whether you want a role focused on property and personnel protection within a specific environment (security) or one with broader law enforcement responsibilities (police). Each path has its own training requirements and opportunities for advancement, as well as different levels of authority and compensation.
Hope that clears things up for you, Joanna! If you have more questions or want to dive deeper into one of these paths, feel free to ask. You have got this, all the best buddy! 😉🤗
Ryan Libby
Security
8
Answers
Corpus Christi, Texas
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
I always say, generally speaking, security is operational, while the majority of law enforcement is passive. Depending on location and qualifications. security can be used as a lot of "ins" and "outs" for law enforcement, prior law enforcement, military applications and just about any other civilian or government agency or company. Security can also be used as a means for continuing education depending on qualifications. there are always ways to move up in security. Just stay curious and always ask questions. Pay can vary depending on location and qualifications. Training can go as far as you choose to let it go. I recommend reflections on what your goals are.
good luck
good luck
Shane Clymer
Physical Security / Security Operations Center
18
Answers
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Updated
Shane’s Answer
Hi Joanna,
Choosing a career as a security guard or police officer can be rewarding, and both paths offer unique opportunities.
Security guards work for private companies and focus on keeping private properties safe. They monitor activities, prevent unauthorized access, and ensure site rules are followed. While they can detain people temporarily, they don't have arrest powers. Training is straightforward, ranging from 14 to 40 hours, with optional firearm training. In Oregon, security guards earn around $48,958 per year, with pay varying by experience and location.
Police officers work for the government and have broader responsibilities, including enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, and investigating crimes. They have full legal powers, including arrest and search. Training is more extensive, involving several months at a police academy. Police officers in Oregon typically earn between $60,000 and $90,000, reflecting their duties and the risks involved.
For those interested in security, Oregon provides a clear path to law enforcement. Programs and waivers are available for those with prior experience, making it easier to transition into policing.
Both careers offer a chance to help others and make a difference in your community. Whether you choose to start as a security guard or aim to become a police officer, you'll be taking steps toward a fulfilling career.
Good Luck 👍
Choosing a career as a security guard or police officer can be rewarding, and both paths offer unique opportunities.
Security guards work for private companies and focus on keeping private properties safe. They monitor activities, prevent unauthorized access, and ensure site rules are followed. While they can detain people temporarily, they don't have arrest powers. Training is straightforward, ranging from 14 to 40 hours, with optional firearm training. In Oregon, security guards earn around $48,958 per year, with pay varying by experience and location.
Police officers work for the government and have broader responsibilities, including enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, and investigating crimes. They have full legal powers, including arrest and search. Training is more extensive, involving several months at a police academy. Police officers in Oregon typically earn between $60,000 and $90,000, reflecting their duties and the risks involved.
For those interested in security, Oregon provides a clear path to law enforcement. Programs and waivers are available for those with prior experience, making it easier to transition into policing.
Both careers offer a chance to help others and make a difference in your community. Whether you choose to start as a security guard or aim to become a police officer, you'll be taking steps toward a fulfilling career.
Good Luck 👍