Armed Security Guard Training Requirements in Missouri

Where there is a threat to public safety, armed security officers are needed. The state of Missouri is one of the most populous state in the United States and the fifth most populous in the Midwest. In places like these, security is often needed. Missouri has no requirements in place to become an armed security on the state level. However, in order to carry a firearm on the city and county levels, requirements are needed. If this is the case then you must contact the local City Clerk’s office for the qualifications and documents needed to carry a weapon.

The hiring agency may also have criteria that you must meet such as:  

• Must be at least 21 years old
• A resident of the United States or a registered resident alien
• Must have a valid driver’s license in the state of Missouri
• Must be in good physical condition
• Must not be convicted of any crime or acts of fraud
• No drug use or dependency
• Must be of sound mind
• Must have no physical disability that could hinder him/her in their security guard duties

For those that are hired by an agency, additional training courses may be given.

This security guard training may include but is not limited to the following:

• Legal Aspects
• The role of private security
• Incident response
• Patrol and observation
• Working and addressing the public
• Surveillance operation
• Written reports and documentation
• First aid overview and CPR

Other requirements may vary depending on the area that you are applying.  In order to carry a firearm, a weapon permit, proof of firearms training and safety must be provided and should be signed by a certified instructor. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 17% increase in demand for security guards through 2016 opening 175,000 new jobs. So be sure that you have your license renewed every year.

Understand that being an armed officer involves risks. Your work involves looking for suspicious individuals and handling threats that may occur so it is inevitable that danger can follow. It is important that you take the necessary training needed not only for the safety of the people but for your own as well. This will teach you how to become a more competent security officer in response to any emergency situations that may occur.

Armed security officers can work in private sectors as well as public. Malls, schools, universities, banks, hospitals and business establishments are only a few of the areas where armed guards are needed. Shifting of schedules is also a part of being an armed officer. Some may work during daylight on week days while others do the night shift and only on weekends or holidays. So be sure that you are ready both physically and mentally if you are planning to work as an armed security officer.

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Missouri