In recent years, the alarming rise in school shootings has changed the role of school security from a routine responsibility to a crucial life-saving mission. As we prepare for the upcoming school year, security leaders must acknowledge a difficult truth: schools in America have become frontline environments that require layered, intelligent, and deeply human-centered protection strategies.

The Statistics Are Alarming:

According to a recent CNN article, there have been 23 school shootings in the United States as of May 13, 2025

• The K-12 School Shooting Database recorded 330 school shootings in 2024.
• Over 70% of active shooter incidents in schools are perpetrated by current or former students, according to the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center.
• A Pew Research Center study found that 63% of U.S. parents fear for their children’s safety at school, a significant increase from just a decade ago.
  

What Security Leaders Should Consider:

1. Invest in Behavioral Threat Assessment Teams: Proactive security is not just about responding to incidents; it also involves early detection. Assembling teams that include security personnel, educators, mental health professionals, and administrators is essential. These teams can monitor concerning behavior, assess intent and capacity for violence, and intervene with support services or law enforcement when necessary.
2. Upgrade Physical Security Infrastructure: Ensure proper physical security guard coverage at your school. Additionally, evaluate and enhance access control systems, CCTV coverage, alarm systems, lockdown mechanisms, and perimeter security.
3. Train for Real-World Scenarios: Security professionals should conduct regular drills so that all staff members are equipped with run-hide-fight protocols. They should also have established communication trees for real-time coordination and receive medical training. Involve EMS and law enforcement in these drills to improve preparedness.
4. Build Community Partnerships: Collaborate closely with local law enforcement and fire departments. Foster relationships with mental health organizations and engage with parent and student groups.

By implementing these strategies, we can better protect our schools and ensure the safety of students and staff. Inter-Con stands ready to support your campus security needs and help tailor a security program that is right for you.

The recent attack on UnitedHealth Group has prompted corporate leaders to confront a critical truth: executive protection is no longer optional. As threats to high-profile executives intensify—ranging from physical violence to digital harassment and travel risks—security professionals must entirely rethink their executive protection strategies.

For companies where leaders are essential to daily operations, public perception, and investor confidence, safeguarding the C-suite is a necessity. Below are five essential tips of effective executive protection for Security Leaders:

1. Conduct Comprehensive Risk Assessments: Develop a thorough risk profile for your executives. Consider factors such as public exposure, known threats, travel frequency, social media presence, and personal routines. This assessment will serve as a foundation for creating a tailored protection plan.
2. Advance Work for Travel: Before any trip, conduct advance site visits, evaluate transportation routes, and understand local risk factors (including political unrest, crime rates, and health risks). Travel-related incidents are among the most common vulnerabilities in executive protection.
3. Dedicated Protection Teams: Instead of relying solely on general security staff, assign specialized executive protection agents. These trained professionals have the necessary expertise in threat detection, evasive driving, real-time crisis management, and can be armed or unarmed.
4. Digital Threat Monitoring: Many threats today originate online. Regularly monitor the dark web, social media, and public records for indications of aggressive actions or threats. It’s also wise to coordinate with cybersecurity teams to safeguard personal and professional data.
5. Medical and Emergency Contingency Plans: Don’t overlook the potential for health emergencies or natural disasters. Establish relationships with local hospitals, create medevac protocols, and ensure that security personnel are trained in advanced first aid.

When a CEO is harmed, the consequences extend far beyond the individual. Stock prices can plummet, shareholder value can decline, and the media can develop a damaging narrative of vulnerability.

In today’s volatile threat landscape, the costs of failing to protect your leaders far exceed the expenses associated with implementing effective protection measures. Inter-Con is experienced in Executive Protection. Contact us today for a tailored security plan to meet your specific needs.

New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest nights of the year, with lots of celebrations, crowds, and an increased risk of security incidents. For security leaders and Security Guards, the stakes are higher because large gatherings, alcohol consumption, and heightened excitement can create unpredictable situations. Proper preparation and vigilance are key to ensuring a safe environment for everyone.

Here are key strategies and tips that Security Guards should follow to maintain safety on New Year’s Eve.

1. Maintain Heightened Awareness: New Year’s Eve is a time when large crowds gather, making it easier for suspicious activity or security threats to go unnoticed. Security Guards must remain highly vigilant, constantly scanning the environment for any signs of trouble. Whether it’s identifying a suspicious package, noticing erratic behavior, or spotting potential conflicts early, guards should trust their instincts and act swiftly when something feels off.
2. Effective Communication is Key: Clear and consistent communication is essential in managing security during busy events, such as New Year’s Eve. Security Guards must ensure that they are in constant contact with one another, as well as with their supervisors and law enforcement if needed. Quick communication allows the team to respond quickly to any incidents or potential threats, keeping the situation under control.
3. Implement Strict Access Control: One of the most effective ways to prevent incidents is by controlling who enters the venue. Security Guards should conduct thorough bag checks and enforce clear access protocols. Prohibited items like weapons, fireworks, or alcohol (in certain venues) must be strictly controlled to ensure no dangerous materials make their way into the event.
4. Visible Security Presence: A strong, visible security presence can function as a deterrent to potential troublemakers. When attendees see Security Guards patrolling the area, they are less likely to cause disruptions or engage in illegal activities. Security leaders should ensure that Security Guards are stationed in high-traffic areas, including entrances, exits, and near gathering points like bars or stages.
5. Responding to Emergencies: No matter how prepared security teams are, emergencies can happen. Whether it’s a medical emergency, an altercation, or a fire, Security Guards must be trained to respond quickly and efficiently. Security leaders should ensure that their teams are familiar with emergency protocols, including evacuation procedures, first aid, and how to work with law enforcement and emergency medical services.
6. Alcohol Management: Alcohol consumption is a major factor during New Year’s Eve celebrations, and it can often lead to disruptive behavior. Security Guards must be trained to identify when someone has had too much to drink and know how to de-escalate potential conflicts. Over-intoxicated individuals should be calmly removed from the venue or directed to a safe area where they won’t pose a threat to themselves or others.
7. Crowd Management and Flow Control: With large crowds, it’s essential to manage the flow of people throughout the venue. Bottlenecks at entrances, exits, and popular areas like bars or stages can create unsafe situations. Security Guards should be stationed in these areas to help direct traffic and ensure smooth movement throughout the event space.
8. Post-Event Safety: Even after the event ends, security responsibilities continue. Security Guards should stay alert during the post-event phase to prevent issues like vandalism, theft, or altercations as people leave the venue. Additionally, ensuring an orderly exit helps avoid accidents or overcrowding at the exits.

To ensure that New Year’s Eve celebrations remain safe and enjoyable for all attendees, Security Guards can follow these tips and best practices. Security leaders must emphasize the importance of vigilance, communication, and preparedness in every situation. Proper planning and execution can help minimize risks and establish a safe environment for everyone celebrating the new year’s arrival.

Black Friday is one of the year’s busiest shopping days, attracting crowds to physical stores and online retailers. With a surge in shoppers, there is a greater risk of security threats, including theft, fraud, and physical altercations. However, trained security guards and increased security measures can provide protection during the shopping frenzy.

Here are some security tips for a safe Black Friday shopping experience, along with insights into the role of security guards in ensuring your safety:

1. Shop early and avoid peak hours
2. Keep personal items secure
3. Be aware of your surroundings
4. Use secure payment methods
5. Be cautious of online deals
6. Watch for phishing scams
7. Monitor your accounts
8. Avoid carrying large sums of cash
9. Park smart and stay safe in transit
10. Use strong online passwords and two-factor authentication

Trained security guards are essential for creating safe retail shopping environments. Their presence deters thieves and scammers, and their training allows them to respond swiftly to various retail security threats, including crowd control and ensuring personal safety. During peak shopping times, many stores increase the number of security guards on duty to guarantee the safety of their customers.

If you ever feel unsafe, lost, or confused in a crowded retail environment, security guards are there to help. Do not hesitate to approach them if you need assistance.

In the constantly changing world of corporate security, organizations aim to adopt models that best suit their individual needs. Two prominent models in the security services sector are the dedicated service model and the branch model. Understanding the benefits of each can assist businesses in making an informed decision that ensures optimal security and operational efficiency.

The Dedicated Service Model

The dedicated service model integrates security personnel directly into the client’s organization. These security professionals become an intrinsic part of the company’s daily operations, collaborating closely with employees and management. This is the model that Inter-Con has been specializing in for over 50 years.

Benefits of the Dedicated Service Model

• Deep Integration with Company Culture: dedicated security personnel are fully immersed in the company’s culture, values, and goals. This integration fosters a strong alignment between the security team and the organization, leading to more effective and cohesive security practices. Security personnel understand the company’s specific needs and can tailor their approach accordingly.
• Enhanced Communication: Proximity and daily interaction with other employees facilitate better communication and collaboration. Security personnel are more accessible and can quickly respond to incidents or security concerns, ensuring prompt and effective resolution.
• Customized/Tailored Security Solutions: With an intimate understanding of the company’s operations, dedicated security teams can develop highly customized security solutions. They can anticipate potential security threats specific to the organization and implement measures that address these unique challenges.
• Stronger Relationships and Better Retention: Building relationships with employees helps create a safer and more secure environment. Familiarity and trust between security personnel and staff can lead to better compliance with security protocols and a more loyal and vigilant workforce.
• Consistent Monitoring and Reporting: Continuous presence within the organization allows for consistent monitoring and timely reporting of security issues. Dedicated security teams can provide real-time updates and insights, enabling proactive measures to prevent incidents.

The Branch Model

The branch model involves security personnel operating from a separate location, typically managed by a central security firm/branch. These teams provide security services to multiple clients and rotate between different sites.

Benefits of the Branch Model

• Cost Efficiency: The branch model can be more cost-effective, as resources and personnel are shared among multiple clients. Businesses can benefit from high-quality security services without the financial burden of maintaining a dedicated team.
• Access to Specialized Expertise: Security firms employing the branch model often have a diverse pool of talent with specialized skills. Clients can access this expertise as needed, ensuring they receive top-notch security solutions for specific challenges.
• Scalability and Flexibility: The branch model offers greater flexibility in scaling security services up or down based on demand. Whether an organization needs additional security for a short-term event or a temporary increase in coverage, the branch model can quickly accommodate these changes.
• Objective Oversight: Operating from an external location provides a degree of separation that can result in more objective oversight and evaluation of security practices. Security firms can offer unbiased assessments and recommendations to enhance the overall security posture.

In summary, understanding the distinct benefits of each model can help businesses make a strategic choice that ensures robust and effective security tailored to their unique environment. The dedicated service model offers deep integration, personalized solutions, and stronger relationships, making it ideal for companies that value close-knit, customized security practices. If these benefits interest you, contact Inter-Con today!

Insider threats remain one of the most challenging security risks for organizations. These threats, whether from disgruntled employees or malicious insiders, can result in data breaches, intellectual property theft, and even physical sabotage. The complexity of insider threats lies in the fact that these individuals already have access to sensitive information and systems, making it difficult to detect and prevent malicious activities.

Private security firms play a crucial role in mitigating the risks associated with insider threats.

Comprehensive Background Checks: Private security firms can conduct thorough background checks to identify potential red flags in an individual’s history before hiring. This includes criminal records, financial issues, and past employment discrepancies that could indicate a higher risk of insider threat behavior.

Access Control: By implementing advanced access control measures, such as biometric authentication and role-based access, security firms can restrict sensitive areas to authorized personnel only. This limits the potential for unauthorized access by insiders.

Video Surveillance and Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of key areas and systems through CCTV, motion detectors, and AI-driven analytics helps detect unusual behavior or unauthorized access attempts in real-time, allowing for immediate intervention.

Employee Training and Awareness: Regular training sessions on security protocols and the importance of vigilance can help employees recognize potential insider threats and understand the consequences of their actions. Creating a culture of security awareness is critical in preventing insider incidents.

Incident Response Planning: Security firms can assist organizations in developing robust incident response plans that include steps for identifying, isolating, and addressing insider threats quickly, minimizing potential damage.

By leveraging these strategies, private security firms help organizations create a secure environment that reduces the risk of insider threats and protects valuable assets. Contact Inter-Con Security today if you are concerned about protecting against insider threats at your organization.

As we approach this year’s election, security leaders across the nation face the dual challenge of protecting their organizations while ensuring the safety of their employees and stakeholders amid a volatile political climate. One key asset in navigating these turbulent times is the effective use of physical security guards. Here’s how these professionals can play a pivotal role in managing the risk of political protests. 

1. Proactive Risk Assessment and Planning

The first step in managing potential disruptions is proactive risk assessment. Security guards can be instrumental in identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities by:

• Monitoring Political Climate: Keeping abreast of political developments, campaign events, and planned protests helps anticipate where and when disruptions might occur.

• Vulnerability Assessments: Regularly assessing the physical vulnerabilities of your organization’s premises, including access points and public spaces, to determine where additional security might be needed.

2. Enhanced Physical Presence and Visibility

A visible security presence can deter potential agitators and reassure employees and stakeholders. 

• Mobile Patrol: Regular patrols of key areas can prevent unauthorized access and quickly address emerging threats.

• Access Control: By managing entry and exit points, security guards can control who enters your premises and ensure that only authorized personnel are allowed in.

• Engage with the Public: Positive interactions with employees and visitors can build trust and diffuse tensions before they escalate.

3. Crisis Management and Rapid Response

Despite the best planning, incidents can still occur. Having a well-trained security team ready to respond swiftly is crucial. 

• Implement Emergency Response Protocols: Trained security guards can quickly activate emergency protocols, including evacuation plans and communication strategies. In the event of injuries, trained security personnel can offer first aid until professional medical help arrives.

• Coordinate with Law Enforcement: Effective communication and coordination with local law enforcement ensure a unified response to any incidents, enhancing overall safety and efficiency.

4. Intelligence Gathering and Reporting

Information is power. Security guards can contribute to intelligence gathering in several ways.

• Surveillance and Monitoring: Utilizing surveillance systems to monitor for suspicious activities and potential threats.

• Reporting: Documenting incidents and suspicious activities provides valuable data for ongoing risk assessments and future planning.

• Staying Informed: Regular briefings and updates on the evolving political landscape help adjust security measures as needed.

5. Training and Preparedness

Preparation is key to effective security management. Ongoing training ensures that security guards are ready to handle a variety of scenarios:

• Scenario-Based Training: Regular drills and scenario-based training exercises prepare guards for different types of incidents, from peaceful protests to more aggressive confrontations.

• De-Escalation Techniques: Training in de-escalation techniques helps guards manage tense situations without resorting to force, reducing the risk of injury and property damage.

• Cultural Awareness: Understanding protesters’ diverse backgrounds and motivations can help security guards engage more effectively and empathetically.

In this election year, political protests are certain to occur. By leveraging the skills and expertise of security guards, security leaders can ensure that their organizations remain safe and secure. Proactive planning, enhanced visibility, rapid response capabilities, intelligence gathering, and comprehensive training are all critical components of a successful security strategy. 

If your organization is looking to augment your security during this time, contact us for your needs today.

In the constantly changing world of corporate security, organizations aim to adopt models that best suit their individual needs. Two models in the security services sector are the dedicated service model and the branch model. Understanding the benefits of each can assist businesses in making an informed decision that ensures optimal security and operational efficiency.

The Dedicated Service Model

The dedicated service model integrates security personnel directly into the client’s organization. These security professionals become an intrinsic part of the company’s daily operations, collaborating closely with employees and management. This model excels in delivering quality-controlled security programs, often resulting in stronger relationships and better retention of security personnel. Inter-Con has specialized in this model for over 50 years, demonstrating its effectiveness.

Benefits of the Dedicated Service Model

• Deep Integration with Client Culture: Dedicated security personnel are fully immersed in the organization’s culture, values, and goals. This integration fosters a strong alignment between the security team and the organization, leading to more effective and cohesive security practices. Security personnel understand the company’s specific needs and can tailor their approach accordingly.
• Enhanced Communication: Proximity and daily interaction with other employees facilitate better communication and collaboration. Security personnel are more accessible and can quickly respond to incidents or security concerns, ensuring prompt and effective resolution.
• Customized/Tailored Security Solutions: With a deep understanding of the organization’s operations, dedicated security teams can create highly personalized security solutions. They can predict potential security threats that are specific to the organization and put in place measures to address these unique challenges. The cost for these programs is fully attributed to the client’s particular needs.
• Stronger Relationships and Better Retention: Building relationships with employees helps create a safer and more secure environment. Familiarity and trust between security personnel and staff can lead to better compliance with security protocols and a more loyal and vigilant workforce.
• Consistent Monitoring and Reporting: Continuous presence within the organization allows for consistent monitoring and timely reporting of security issues. Dedicated security teams can provide real-time updates and insights, enabling proactive measures to prevent incidents.

The Branch Model

The branch model involves security personnel operating from a separate location, typically managed by a central security firm/branch. These teams provide security services to multiple clients and rotate between different sites.  The branch model can be more cost-effective in some scenarios because resources and personnel are shared among multiple clients. This may be true for clients with low training and security requirement needs or a low-risk security posture.  In this scenario, a branch model can afford flexibility as commoditized officers can be pulled from other similar security programs in the area on an “as needed” basis. 

The choice between a dedicated service model and a branch model of security depends on the organization’s specific needs and priorities.

In summary, understanding the distinct benefits of each model can help businesses make a strategic choice that ensures robust and effective security tailored to their unique environment. The dedicated service model offers deep integration, customized solutions, better post coverage, and stronger relationships, making it ideal for clients who value close-knit, customized security practices. If these benefits interest you, contact Inter-Con today!

Investing in security services is crucial for safeguarding your business, assets, and personnel. To maximize the return on your investment, it’s essential to optimize your security operations. Here are some key strategies to enhance your security services ROI and get the most value from your investment.

Conduct a Comprehensive Risk Assessment

Begin by conducting a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential vulnerabilities and threats. This will help you tailor your security measures to address the most critical risks, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently. A well-executed risk assessment should include evaluating current security protocols, identifying potential internal and external threats, and prioritizing risks based on their potential impact.

Implement Advanced Technology to Drive Efficiencies

Leverage the latest security technologies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Modern security solutions, such as AI-empowered workforce management and scheduling tools, surveillance cameras, and access control systems, can improve your overall security posture.

Optimize Security Deployment and Conduct Benchmarking Studies

Analyze the deployment of security resources to ensure you have the right number and type of staff in place and that they are used where they are most needed. Leverage your security services provider to provide benchmarking assistance on what to expect in terms of spend, officer-to-asset ratio, number of supervisors, and estimated spend.

Leverage Data and Analytics

Utilize data analytics and dashboard reporting to gain insights into your security operations. By analyzing data from surveillance systems, access logs, and incident reports, you can identify patterns and areas for improvement. Implementing data-driven strategies allows you to monitor and analyze security incidents in real-time, identify trends, predict potential threats, and optimize resource allocation based on data insights.

Partner with a Reputable Security Provider

Choosing the right security services provider can greatly improve your security return on investment. Seek a provider with a proven track record, comprehensive training programs, and advanced technologies. A trustworthy partner will offer personalized security solutions tailored to your specific needs, provide access to security technologies and innovations, and offer ongoing, transparent support and expertise to enhance your security program cost-effectively.

In conclusion, maximizing the ROI of your security services requires a strategic approach that combines risk assessments, data, and benchmarking assessments, and partnering with a reputable security provider. Through this approach, you can ensure that your investment in security yields the highest possible returns. Protecting your business effectively not only enhances safety but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your core operations.

In the constantly changing realm of corporate security, businesses are always evaluating the most effective strategies to safeguard their personnel, assets, and information. There is often a belief that transitioning from contract security to in-house security will be more cost-effective and that the business will have a security team customized to their specific requirements. Let’s examine that perspective.

Expertise and Specialization

Contract security services offer specialized expertise, which is a significant advantage. These firms focus solely on security, so they have extensive experience and knowledge that in-house security teams may lack. They invest heavily in training, licensing, and staying updated on the latest security threats. This enables them to provide highly trained personnel capable of handling various security challenges. Additionally, a good contract security provider can customize security solutions based on specific business needs and have dedicated personnel stationed on-site. In contrast, building an in-house security team requires a significant investment in training and development.

Cost Efficiency

Cost is a crucial factor for any business decision, and contract security often has an advantage here. Hiring security services through a contract can be more cost-effective than maintaining an in-house team. In-house teams come with additional costs like salaries, benefits, training, uniforms, and equipment. With contract security, businesses can negotiate terms that fit their budget while avoiding the costs associated with full-time employees. Contract security providers also take on the risks and costs associated with any incidents, potential claims, or liabilities.

Flexibility and Scalability

Contract security services offer businesses flexibility by adjusting security presence based on current needs or threats, while in-house teams may struggle due to fixed staffing levels and slower response times for recruitment and training. This difference can lead to potential gaps in protection during transitional periods.

Technology and Innovation

Staying at the forefront of security technology is paramount in today’s environment. Contract security firms have the resources to invest in cutting-edge technology, such as AI-empowered scheduling systems and workforce management tools. These firms continuously update their technological capabilities to meet evolving threats, providing clients with state-of-the-art security solutions.

In-house security teams, unless part of a large organization with substantial resources, may struggle to keep up with technological advancements thus hindering their effectiveness.

Accountability and Performance

Contract security firms operate under service-level agreements (SLAs) that outline performance standards and accountability measures. These contracts provide businesses with clear expectations and recourse if standards are not met. The competitive nature of the security industry also drives contract firms to maintain high-performance levels to retain clients.

In conclusion, both contract security and in-house security offer distinct advantages, and the best choice depends on the specific needs and resources of the business. Keep in mind that contract security provides expertise, cost efficiency, flexibility, advanced technology, and accountability, making it an attractive option for many companies.