Although door supervision is generally considered to be a safe and sociable role, there will be times, however, when the job will require you to diffuse difficult situations. During these times, safety is the number one priority, not only for yourself while playing the role, but also for the innocent bystanders who are standing around you. It is important to be aware of your surroundings.
Believe it or not, when outside a venue, there are many hazards that can cause serious injury and even death in the event of a fight. The edge of a roadside, for example, a passing car, a bottle or glass on the pavement. Violence can escalate very quickly. So when it does, how do you deal with it?
As a security operation, physical intervention should only be used as a last resort and not as an immediate response to a threat. But when you are left with no options and are forced to use it, what should you not do? Let’s explore what not to do.
Losing your cool
As a professional security guard, you’re required to be professional at all times. That means when a reveller decides that they want to lose their cool with you, you cannot reciprocate the feelings and start a confrontation. Remember you aren’t just representing yourself, you’re representing the organisation or event that you’re working at. You are the face of the event so a professional, approachable persona is always the best option.
Choke holds
Holds above the shoulders are considered “high risk” or “harmful” should be avoided at all costs. These would include neck holds, where a significant amount of pressure applied could have a detrimental effect on breathing and circulation. In addition, any damage to the spine or lower back could be the result of too much grip.
Positional restraint and asphyxia
This type of restraint will cause asphyxia, a condition or process of oxygen deprivation, which can result in loss of consciousness or suffocation and even death! This usually occurs when weight is applied to a person’s torso from a ground restraint. Just imagine the number of fights that have ended up on the ground. This just shows the level of risk and danger involved when a fight occurs.
Remember that as human beings we are all susceptible to being overwhelmed by our emotions, and it is these very emotions that can lead to danger and ultimately regret – probably the worst emotion of all.
So, as a security guard, it is always important to be safe and keep a clear and present mind.
