Golden West Security – Industry Leader In Security Services

Golden West Security Officers are highly trained Professionals in the Security Industry. In addition to the forty hours of continued education mandated by BSIS (Bureau of Security and Investigative Services), Golden West Security officers receive training on a bi-monthly basis. Patrol officers and standing guards are managed by highly experienced Watch Commanders, an important feature that sets our services apart from other security companies. We manage everything through our sophisticated, fully-staffed command center which operates 24/7, 365 days a year.

Glossary of Security Terms

The world of private security uses a wide range of industry-specific terms, abbreviations, and jargon. At Golden West Security Inc., we believe in transparency and education, so we’ve created this glossary to help you better understand the terminology you may encounter when working with a security provider.

Access Control
A system or procedure used to regulate who is allowed to enter or exit a facility, area, or event. This may include badges, keycards, sign-in logs, or security officers verifying credentials.

Alarm Response
The dispatch of a security officer to investigate an alarm activation and determine if a threat or false alarm is present.

Armed Officer
A security officer licensed and authorized to carry a firearm while on duty, typically deployed in high-risk or sensitive environments.

Asset Protection
Security strategies designed to protect property, equipment, and valuables from theft, damage, or loss.

BSIS (Bureau of Security and Investigative Services)
The California state agency responsible for licensing and regulating private security companies and officers.

Concierge Security
A combination of customer service and security typically provided in residential buildings, corporate lobbies, or upscale properties. Officers may greet guests, control access, and monitor activity.

De-escalation
Tactics used by officers to calm a potentially volatile or confrontational situation without the use of force.

Dispatch
The command center responsible for coordinating security officer deployment, handling emergency calls, and maintaining communication across all active assignments.

Emergency Response Plan
A predefined set of procedures to follow in the event of a fire, medical emergency, intrusion, or other crisis.

Fire Watch
A service where a trained security officer monitors a property for signs of fire or hazards, usually required when fire detection or suppression systems are offline.

Foot Patrol
The act of walking and inspecting a property on foot to monitor for suspicious behavior, hazards, or unauthorized access.

Guard Card
A license issued by BSIS that allows an individual to legally work as a security officer in California.

Incident Report
A written or digital record of any notable occurrence (e.g., trespassing, vandalism, injury) observed or responded to by a security officer.

Lockbox Access
A secured box containing keys or access tools that allow authorized security personnel to enter a gated or locked area.

Mobile Patrol
Security officers in marked vehicles who visit and inspect multiple properties during a shift, often at random intervals.Security services provided by a third-party company under a service agreement, rather than by in-house personnel.

Observation Log
A report documenting routine patrols, checks, and notes during a security officer’s shift. Helps track trends and incidents over time.

Patrol Checkpoint System
A digital or RFID-based system used to confirm that officers are completing patrol routes and site inspections on schedule.

Post Orders
Detailed written instructions provided to a security officer outlining their responsibilities and protocols for a specific assignment or site.

Private Security Company
A licensed business that provides security personnel and services to clients under contract.

Random Patrol
An unpredictable route or schedule for property checks, designed to reduce the chance of timed criminal activity.

Real-Time Reporting
The use of digital technology to log and transmit officer activity and incidents as they happen — typically via a mobile device or software platform.

Security Assessment
An evaluation of a property or operation to identify risks and recommend appropriate security measures.

Site Supervisor
A designated officer or manager responsible for overseeing security operations at a specific location.

Unarmed Officer
A security guard who does not carry a firearm but is trained in observation, reporting, and emergency response.

Visitor Management
The process of tracking, screening, and documenting all non-resident or non-employee entries to a site or building.

Golden West Security Inc. is always happy to explain our services, procedures, and terminology. We believe security should feel clear, professional, and approachable — not confusing or overwhelming.