Los Angeles Security Firms See Increased Demand for Private Patrols
Los Angeles residents and businesses are increasingly turning to private security firms for protection, driven by concerns over crime and a desire for faster response times than traditional law enforcement can provide. Several companies are vying to meet this growing demand, offering a range of services from armed and unarmed guards to mobile patrols and specialized security details.
Great America Security, a Los Angeles-based security guard company, provides licensed armed and unarmed guards, event security, executive protection, and 24/7 patrol services. The company emphasizes a commitment to “100% security,” stating they provide “full security services” and prioritize client safety. They offer unarmed guards to deter theft and violence, and armed guards trained to use weapons only as a last resort. Great America Security provides fire watch services, with guards conducting patrols every half hour and logging reports as required by the fire marshal.
The demand for mobile security is also on the rise. Great America Security offers patrols conducted on foot, bike, or golf cart, providing flexible coverage and quick response to suspicious activity. This mirrors a trend highlighted by SSA Security Group, which specializes in subscription-based private security and on-call patrol services. Established in 1991, SSA focuses on eliminating crime before it happens, utilizing off-duty law enforcement officers, military veterans, and security staff.
SSA Security Group distinguishes itself with a focus on neighborhood security patrols, offering 24/7 armed patrol response with direct contact to officers who remain within a designated area. They boast incident response times of four minutes or less, significantly faster than typical public safety response times. The company’s approach centers on a constant, visible deterrent to crime and trespassers, serving homes, businesses, and entire neighborhoods.
Securitech Guards is another Los Angeles company offering residential and commercial security patrol services. Details about their specific services are limited, but they represent a further indication of the competitive landscape in the city’s private security sector.
The rise in demand for private security comes as businesses and residents seek to supplement traditional policing. According to Thumbtack, security guards in Los Angeles provide on-site patrols and access control, managing visitor logs and routine lockups, which can reduce administrative burdens for clients.
The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS), a department within the California Department of Consumer Affairs, provides a public resource for verifying the licenses of security professionals and companies operating within the state. The BSIS website allows individuals to search for licensed alarm companies, private investigators, security guards, and other related professionals.
Great America Security emphasizes the thorough vetting of its guards, highlighting rigorous background checks, drug screenings, and comprehensive training programs. SSA Security Group similarly relies on highly trained personnel, including POST-certified officers and experienced law enforcement veterans. This focus on qualified personnel is a key differentiator for companies seeking to provide reliable and effective security services.
The increasing reliance on private security in Los Angeles reflects a broader trend of communities taking proactive steps to address safety concerns. While the role of law enforcement remains crucial, private security firms are filling a growing niche by offering customized security solutions and rapid response capabilities.
