Holiday Security: The Importance of Armed Security and De-Escalation Training in Retail Environments

Why Retail Security Matters During the Holidays

The holiday season is a peak time for retail sales but also for security incidents. Crowded stores, increased transactions, and high-value merchandise create opportunities for theft and fraud. Additionally, the stress of the holidays can lead to heightened emotions, increasing the risk of confrontations or disputes.

Without proper security measures, these risks can escalate, resulting in financial losses, reputational damage, and even harm to employees or customers.

More Than Just Armed Security

At Covert Results, we provide much more than a guard stationed at the front door with a firearm. Our approach combines armed security with intelligence-driven investigations to offer comprehensive protection for retail locations.

Here’s how it works: if a theft occurs, our investigations division is immediately deployed to identify the individual(s) responsible. Unlike traditional security approaches that risk employee and customer safety by confronting the thief on-site, our team collects critical intelligence, identifies the perpetrator, and works with law enforcement to ensure accountability.

For example, this year alone, we’ve had three separate incidents where thieves were identified within 30 minutes. In each case, our investigator contacted the individuals directly, advising them to return the stolen items immediately or face legal action. The result? Each thief returned the items, amazed at how quickly we identified them—right down to their cell phone numbers.

This dual approach of armed security and investigative follow-up is a double threat to criminals and a significant asset for retailers.

Real Results at Retail Locations

Covert Results currently provides armed security at several high-profile retail locations. Our expertise has proven invaluable for preventing theft, managing incidents, and ensuring a safe shopping environment. One success story involves a high-end liquor store where our combined armed security and investigations team has not only prevented theft but also supported successful prosecutions.

Retailers choose Covert Results because they know we don’t just stand watch; we actively work to protect their assets and hold criminals accountable.

De-Escalation Training: A Vital Skill for Holiday Security

While armed security offers immediate protection, the ability to de-escalate tense situations is equally critical. Holiday stress can lead to altercations between customers or disputes with staff, which can spiral out of control without the right approach.

Our security personnel are trained in de-escalation techniques, focusing on calming situations before they escalate. This not only prevents potential harm but also maintains a positive shopping experience for customers. For example, a dispute over a limited-stock item was peacefully resolved at another retail location thanks to the quick-thinking and composed approach of one of our officers.

Plainclothes vs. Uniformed Security

Retailers can choose between plainclothes or uniformed security, depending on their specific needs:

• Uniformed Security: Provides a visible deterrent and reassures customers of a secure environment.
• Plainclothes Security: Blends into the crowd, making it easier to observe and catch perpetrators without alerting them.

At Covert Results, we offer both options and work closely with our clients to determine the best fit for their retail environment.

Ensuring Employee and Officer Safety

The safety of employees and security officers is paramount. Armed security teams must have the proper training and support to handle high-pressure situations effectively. This includes access to communication tools, clear protocols, and ongoing education to stay prepared for any scenario.

The holidays should be a time of celebration and goodwill, not worry and risk. By investing in professional armed security and de-escalation training, retailers can create a safe and welcoming environment for employees and customers alike.

At Covert Results, we take it a step further, coupling armed security with cutting-edge investigative strategies to stop criminals in their tracks. Our innovative approach ensures that incidents are handled safely and that justice is served. It’s this commitment to excellence that makes us a trusted partner for retail security during the holiday season and beyond.

Covert Results is the premier private investigations, armed security, cyber security, and training company you’ve been searching for. Our team of highly skilled experts has amassed over 100 years of experience in all fields, from investigations to security concerns. Being a member and working within a global network called The Entrepreneurs Organization allows us to provide excellent service anywhere on Earth – truly bringing peace of mind through our world class services! Be sure to follow @CovertResults across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the latest information regarding investigator expertise as well as lighthearted moments shared by our community! If you need us to guide you to that peace of mind you are looking for, call or text 615-861-1680 or email contact@covertresults.com.