This week, Vancouver was hit with its first snowstorm of the season, covering the city in over 10cm of snow. During periods of cold weather, it’s important for security guards to use best practices and wear the right clothing to stay warm. This is especially applicable on security sites that are open to the elements, such as construction sites, outdoor malls, warehouses, and exterior retail spaces. In this blog, we'll explore essential tips for maintaining warmth and safety during winter patrols.
Essential Winter Gear for Security Guards
Adequate winter clothing, gear, and protection are essential for security guards working outdoor shifts. Here’s a quick list:
Gloves: Security guards should wear warm gloves to protect their fingers and hands from the cold. Texting gloves are ideal for reporting with smart devices.
Toque: Most body heat is lost through the head, so a toque (or another warm hat) is necessary in cold weather. Opt for a hat that covers the ears for maximum warmth and comfort.
Scarf: The neck is another key area of heat loss in the body. It is essential to wear a scarf that can be tucked into your jacket collar to stay out of the way.
Thermal long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and pullovers: Thermal layers maximize warmth while reducing bulk, helping you stay both agile and warm.
Thermal wool socks: Thermal socks are a must-have when working outside for extended periods of time, especially while wearing steel-toed boots.
Boots: Security uniforms typically include slip-resistant work boots that cover the ankles.
Patrol Strategies
During extremely cold weather, security guards can adjust their patrol patterns to maximize time spent indoors while maintaining effective security coverage. This might include coordinating with front desk security and other uniformed security guards to conduct indoor patrols between outdoor rounds or prioritizing guarding front entrances in a building’s interior. Security guards should identify warm-up locations throughout their patrol routes, such as indoor checkpoints around the property.
Weather Safety Protocols
Security guards must stay alert to changing weather conditions that could impact their safety. Heavy snowfall, ice formation, and extreme cold warnings all require additional safety precautions. Security guards must also be alert for icicle formations on overhangs around the property, which pose a danger if they fall, and coordinate with maintenance teams to have them removed. Guards should maintain regular communication with leadership about weather conditions and follow established protocols for extreme weather situations.
Maintaining Equipment in Cold Weather
Extremely cold temperatures can affect security equipment, including radios, phones, walkie-talkies, and other electronic devices. For example, Apple has stated that the iPhone is operational from 0 to 35 degrees Celsius, meaning performance may drop during very cold temperatures.
Security guards should store electronics in warm pockets and ensure all equipment is properly weatherproofed. Additionally, guards should regularly check that security cameras and lighting systems are functioning correctly, as winter weather can impact visibility and surveillance capabilities.
Winter Mobile Patrol Vehicle Safety
For mobile security patrols, winter preparation includes ensuring security vehicles are properly equipped for cold weather. Security leadership should coordinate regular maintenance on vehicles, such as checking tire pressure regularly, ensuring cars are equipped with winter tires, and keeping gas tanks at least half full.
Vehicles should also contain essential winter supplies, such as a snow shovel and scraper. Before departing for their shift, security guards should check the vehicle to ensure these important supplies are inside.
Partner With the Best Security Company in Canada
Security guards should always be prepared for extreme weather, but company leadership should also ensure the safest conditions possible for their employees. At Blackbird Security, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our security guards in all weather conditions. We’re proud to protect businesses across Canada, including in Toronto, Ontario, Calgary, Alberta, and Vancouver, BC. View our full list of serviced locations here.
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