FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is the benefit of using contracted security services?
The most important benefit is that most contractors are very knowledgeable in their field. For security, this is extremely important because of the need for extensive training and high level of liability involved.
Another big benefit is simple convenience to the customer. Independent contractors provide the personnel, pay employee wages, taxes, unemployment benefits, social security/medicare taxes, and all ensure that all licensing requirements are met. Contractors also usually supply all the required equipment such as uniforms, badges, identification, flashlights, two-way radios, etc.
2. Is your company licensed and insured?
Absolutely. Official regulations require us to carry a minimum of $100,000 general liability insurance. However, we carry well above this minimum. We also carry appropriate workers comp and unemployment insurance. Proof of coverage is provided to all clients. Clients have the option of being listed as a named or additional insured on our policy for a fee.
Our industry licenses are issued from the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services Division of Licensing; Investigations Agency A 9700322 & Security Agency B 9700128. In addition, we hold all necessary local occupational licenses.
3. Can you provide armed officers?
Absolutely. We have several security officers that are properly licensed to carry firearms. These officers are licensed to carry their authorized firearm anywhere in Florida while on duty.
This license is a special license for the private security industry (not a regular firearms or weapons license that citizens can obtain) and requires several hours of classroom, hands-on and firing range training. In addition, the officer must qualify (show proficiency) with their weapon routinely as a requirement of maintaining their license. The officer may only carry the same type of firearm as they trained and qualified with. Only the following types of handguns are permitted for security use by Florida law: 9mm or .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol; .38 and .357 caliber revolver.
4. I don't think I need armed officers. Why should I consider using armed services for my security solution?
The first reason most clients are hesitant about using armed services is image. Sometimes, clients assume that having an armed officer would diminish their image or project the idea that their property is not safe without an armed officer. But this is not true in the Central Florida area. Many of our clients that use armed services report positive feedback from their employees, residents and guests. Many say that they feel more safe with an armed officer present. Any you can guarantee that anyone planning on committing a crime on your property is taking note of whether the security is armed or not...
In addition, it is important to note that we care about our officer's safety. Statistics show that in most cases of an attack on or death to a security officer, the officer was unarmed.
The second reason clients may not wish to go armed is cost. However, the benefits usually outweigh the small increase in rate (usually about 12%) for armed officers.
5. What type of uniforms do you have?
Our standard uniform is a military "dress" style consisting of a tan shirt and green trousers. The shirts have military creases, patches, brass nameplates and appropriate rank insignia. We also have a more casual golf style polo shirt with slacks. Some special operations such as bike patrol require special uniforms.
6. Can officers be in plain clothes instead of a uniform?
Sure. However, you must specifically request that we operate in plain clothes. And if needed, these plain clothes officers can be armed.
7. Do you offer alternatives to foot patrol?
Yes. We can offer a motor vehicle patrol (using an unmarked vehicle or marked security vehicle with flashing lights). Or we can have our officers use a golf cart or bicycle to patrol. If we supply the vehicle, it will add to your hourly base rate.
8. How are rates determined?
Rates can be complex and are determined by several factors such as:
- Site Location
- Total number of hours per billing cycle
- Whether you need unarmed or armed officers
- Whether you need us to provide a patrol vehicle
- Type of patrol vehicle provided (golf cart, motor vehicle, bike, etc.)
- Whether the assignment is temporary or permanent
- Complexity of duties
ADVANCED PROTECTIVE SERVICES
245 Plumosa Road DeBary, Florida 32713
Office (888) 834-0898 Fax (386) 753-9167
Licensed & Insured
Florida Agency A9700322 B9700128
Copyright © 2006 ADVANCED PROTECTIVE SERVICES & INVESTIGATIONS, INC. All Rights Reserved
