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 the high level of liability involved.
Another big benefit is simple convenience to the customer. Independent contractors provide the liability insurance, workers' compensation, personnel, pay employee wages, taxes, unemployment benefits, social security/medicare taxes, and ensure that all licensing requirements are met. Contractors usually supply all the required equipment such as uniforms, badges, identification, flashlights, two-way radios, etc.
2. Is your company licensed and insured?
Absolutely, Wisconsin 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' compensation 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.
Our industry licenses are issued from the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing as a Private Detective Agency. http://drl.wi.gov
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 Wisconsin while on duty.
This license is a special license for the private security industry and requires 36 hours of classroom, hands-on and firing range training.
The Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing has adopted a 36 hour training course that is a Wisconsin Law Enforcement Standards Board (LESB) approved course. In other words, Armed Private Security Officers are trained to the same standards, and use the same curriculum as Wisconsin Law Enforcement Officers.
In addition, the officer must re-qualify (show proficiency) with their weapon annually as a requirement of maintaining their license. The officer may only use the same type of firearm as he or she is trained and qualified to carry.
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. Many of our clients that use armed services report positive feedback from their employees, residents and guests. Many say that they feel safer with an armed officer present, but you can guarantee that anyone planning on committing a crime on your property is taking note of whether the security officer is armed or not.
In addition, it is important to note that we care about our officers' safety. Statistics show that in most cases when a security officer is attacked or killed, 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 15%) for an armed officer verses the competitions unarmed officer.
5. Why choose Metro Racine Safety Enforcement versus hiring an off-duty police officer or county deputy sheriff?
Metro Racine Officers have a great advantage over off-duty officers. We carry our own workman's compensation insurance, liability insurance, and automobile insurance. When you hire off-duty officers from your local law enforcement agency, YOU are liable for any workman's compensation or liability claims due to the actions of the officer you are employing. Also, working for you is our primary job, not a sideline.
If you have a valid need for an off duty law enforcement officer, contact us as we have licensed private detectives who are off duty officers and can be contracted through our agency.
6. Do you offer alternatives to foot patrol?
Yes. We can offer a motor vehicle patrol (using an unmarked vehicle or a marked security vehicle). We can also have our officers use a golf cart or bicycle to patrol. If we supply the vehicle, it will add to your hourly base rate.
7. How are rates determined?
Rates can be complex and are determined by several factors such as:
- 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
