Security Guards vs. Other Security Services: What You Need to Know

Quick Answer: Security guards bring real-time, on-the-ground protection that no tech can’t match. They deter threats, handle emergencies, and adapt instantly, giving you the reassurance that your security needs are being met with confidence. 
Other systems like CCTV, alarms, and remote monitoring work best as layers of security, but they’re different from a human presence. The sweet spot? Combine guards with tech for maximum coverage.

Why Compare?

Have you ever thought, Do I need a security guard, or can tech do the job?

You’re not alone. Let’s break it down.

---

Security Guards vs. CCTV Surveillance

CCTV cameras = eyes that never blink.

Guards = hands, feet, and a brain to act on what cameras see.

When CCTV Shines:

• 24/7 monitoring of multiple locations.
• Capturing evidence for investigations.
• Acting as a visual deterrent for low-risk settings.

Where Guards Win:

• Responding immediately to incidents like theft or vandalism.
• Spotting suspicious behaviour that AI might miss.
• Dealing with unexpected situations, like fires or medical emergencies.

Storytime: A retail store manager once said, “Our CCTV caught the shoplifter, but the guard stopped them leaving with a £500 jacket.”

---

Security Guards vs. Alarm Systems

Alarms scream. Guards solve.

Why Alarms Help:

• Immediate alerts to intrusions.
• Affordable and reliable for small properties.
• It pairs well with CCTV or monitoring services.

What Alarms Can’t Do:

• Chase intruders.
• De-escalate aggressive situations.
• Verify if it’s a false alarm or a real threat.

Reality check: Alarms are great at saying, “Something’s wrong,” but they can’t handle the “what now?”

---

Security Guards vs. Remote Monitoring

Remote monitoring services bring tech-heavy solutions to watch over your property.

Perks of Remote Monitoring:

• Constant oversight from a centralised hub.
• Cost-effective for large premises.
• Alerts are sent directly to emergency services.

But Here’s the Catch:

• Delayed response times if no guard is on-site.
• Limited ability to assess nuanced risks, like loitering or suspicious behaviour.
• It’s reliant on good connectivity.

What works best? Combine remote monitoring with security guards for instant action backed by real-time data.

---

How Security Guards Complement Other Security Systems

Let’s flip the script. It’s not guards vs. tech. It’s guards + tech = unbeatable security.

Why They Work Together:

• Guards validate alarms. No false calls to emergency services.
• CCTV spots threats; guards neutralise them.
• Remote monitoring tracks incidents, but guards handle them on the ground.

Real-life Example:

For example, a music venue in Southampton had CCTV, but vandals still managed to strike. However, after adding a night guard to their security team, incidents of vandalism were slashed by 80% within a month. The guard used patrols, worked with the CCTV team, and kept the place running smoothly, demonstrating the power of combining guards with tech for unbeatable security.

The guard used patrols, worked with the CCTV team, and kept the place running smoothly.

---

FAQs

Q: Can security guards replace CCTV or alarms?

A: No, and they don’t need to. Guards fill the gaps where tech falls short, like immediate response and crisis management.

Q: Are guards worth the cost compared to tech?

A: Yes—especially in high-risk areas like construction sites, hospitals, or large events. Their presence alone can save you thousands in potential losses.

Q: Do I need both guards and tech?

A: For most businesses? Yes. Combining guards with alarms, cameras, or monitoring creates a layered approach that’s much harder to breach. Explore the various types of security guarding ->

Q: What’s cheaper: tech or guards?

A: Alarms and cameras are cheaper upfront. But guards prevent more damage, which means long-term savings.

---

Final Thoughts

A security guard isn’t just a warm body in a uniform.

They’re not just your first responder but your risk assessor and human safety net, prioritising your safety and making you feel valued.

Tech is brilliant for monitoring and alerting, but it won’t walk into a risky situation, de-escalate a fight, or provide peace of mind like a trained professional.

Want the best security? Combine guards with tech for a practically bulletproof setup.

See our top tips, when hiring a security guard ->