Security Resources - Directory for Hostile Environments, Close Protection, NGO, CBRN, Travel Safe
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Security consultants These measures could range from simply not setting patterns; travelling the same route at the same time every day. Employing a bodyguard for certain trips or linking your alarm system into an internet linked CCTV. Security consultants can be independent or contracted through a security company and depending on the location may be able to project manage the procurement and installation of any recommendations that have been agreed upon. Bodyguarding
However in no way does this undermine individuals who have not served in these units or have no service background. Due to the vast arrange of skills required whilst working in hostile environments many other skills prove invaluable. Furthermore there are excellent CP/ Personal Security Details (PSD) teaching establishments (directory)that train both individuals with or without a service backgrounds to an extremely high level. Using instructors that have a vast experience of working on the circuit both in the UK and internationally (including Iraq/Afghanistan) these companies train their ‘students’ in the following as well as many other subjects:
Many of these companies only employ staff who have successfully passed their own course to ensure that the whole team will have a clear understanding and have practised any procedure they need to carry out. Bodyguards or CP teams can be employed privately or through a security/CP company. Daily costs can range from £100 - £500 Depending on position (Team Leader), experience, location and threat. CP operator are not permitted to be armed within the UK. An individual bodyguard will not have the same backup or logistic support for example compared to if they were a contracted from a company. However, there wouldn’t be the extra cost charged for this service if employed privately. Hostile Environments
The attacks in Mumbai clearly illustrate that particular wealthy foreigners are targets for terrorist gangs. Some guests trapped in the hotel were able to fortify there rooms and make best use of the resources around. Turning mobile phones to silent, barricading the door and preparing for a fire braking out saved many lives. By being aware of what you can do and knowing what the police are doing behind the scenes will make you mentally stronger and assist you in getting through the situation. Travel Safe, Dangerous planet and the books displayed on the website will give you an excellent insight into preparing for overseas travel to more hostile areas.
The World newspapers section not only provides a link to international news centres but also every nation’s online newspapers. Security Resources directory displays companies that provide tailor made courses for anyone travelling or working in these regions. Covering topics such as Navigation, Communications, Off road driving, first aid, and how to react to threatening situations these courses are invaluable and are widely used by ‘NGOs’ and Media teams . Euan McGregor on his ‘Long Way Down’ documentary is just one example of how these courses prepares people for work in hostile regions. Knowing the language and respecting the local customs is always an excellent starting point. A number of insurance companies offer Kidnap and Ransom insurance. Their policy range can include providing a Hostage Negotiator to interact with the kidnappers, paying a ransom fee, providing medical care and repatriation once the kidnapping has been resolved. Although the UK Government overall policy is not to negotiate with terrorists, the FCO /Embassy will be greatly involved in assisting in securing the release. HostageUK is a charity which was established to help to meet the needs of the increasing numbers of people who fall victim to kidnapping or hostage taking situations.
Many security consultants/managers have a great deal of experience in operating the security of sites in 3rd world/dangerous countries. They would be able to effectively run the site location managing the locally employed guard force and implementing the necessary security measure to enhance the safety of the personnel. Iraq and Afghanistan are two of the most dangerous countries to work in. Kidnappings, shootings and road side bombs are daily occurrences. Enhanced security procedures, equipment and protection has been incorporated to meet the threat. Close Protection (CP) teams known as PSD in these countries are used to provide protection for contractors and equipment whilst travelling around the country. These armed security escorts are predominately conducted by the larger security companies due to the size of resources required to undertake these operations. Predominately all movement is conducted in armoured vehicle convoys. The protection level that ‘non military’ armoured vehicles provide is measured by either the National Institute of Justice (NIJ)Standard or Euronorm Ballistic Standard (EN). Purpose built armoured vehicles, primarily include large saloons and 4x4, whilst vehicles that have been upgraded can range from a car to an HGV. Upgrades include armoured glass, armoured panels and run-flat tyres (Maintain traction and control If a tyre is punctured either by accident or attack, the Runflat TSI system prevents total deflation and allows the driver to maintain traction and control. The journey can continue at a recommended speed up to 50km/hr for a distance of up to 50km or to reach a point of safety where the damage can be repaired. As the tyre deflates the Runflat TSI provides support for the wheel and tyre to continue to function with little degradation of performance compared to normal operation.). Depending on the amount of protection added and its increased weight, this could potentially impact on the vehicle’s performance and may require such items as the suspension and brakes to be upgraded themselves. The increase weight will also impact on the MPG. Although not providing the same protection levels, toughed security glass and bullet resistant seat panels can provide a less expensive alternative. Again the area and threat against you will determine the level of protection required. Second hand (directory or classified ads) vehicles and can be purchased. Defensive driving courses are available for anyone to attend with advanced CP ones being suitable for professional chauffeurs. As well as defensive driving and reacting to an attack these courses will teach the driver how to interact and operate with a CP team. Equipment - Security Directory Hi tech equipment such a secure satellite phone, GPS, electronic counter measures (ECM) and listening device scanners are all part of the security operators arsenal. Depending on the customer’s requirement and the imposed threat this equipment and other services can be found within the security directory or specialist areas. A wide selection of books covering topics such as security, travel and medical are available. By working along side its numerous contacts within the security, emergency and travel industry and using its expedition and operations knowledge and experience Security Resources is able to prepare and source equipment packages. Whether it is for an initial deployment, maintaining a capability or as an emergency resource Security Resources can get the equipment to the necessary location.
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The aim of this section is to provide an overview of what security related resources are available and briefly outline the role of personnel involved within security to those less familiar with this expanding industry. The directory is free to view as are the specialist in depth hostile environment 
Whilst working in higher risk/3rd world countries such as Colombia and India the risk of being assaulted or kidnapped is extremely high as foreign nationals are seen as a potential source of money. By being aware of the threats, the situation around you and precautionary/reactive methods is a great advantage. Furthermore by employing a Close protection operator or team will greatly decreases the risk against criminal gangs or terrorist groups as it will likely deter them and opting for an easier target. Reliable local guides/security contacts are also an invaluable asset with up to date local news, views and customs and can smooth the way when dealing with the nation’s military/ police or any militia.