The Best Private Security in Lake Wales, FL

In Lake Wales and throughout Florida, private security companies must be licensed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Division of Licensing. Security officers must complete 40 hours of professional training, pass a criminal background check, and hold a valid Class "D" Security Officer license. Companies themselves must also hold a Class "B" Private Security Agency license. It's important to verify that any security provider you hire in Lake Wales has these current state licenses to ensure professionalism and legal compliance.

In Lake Wales, common security needs include residential patrol services for the city's many lakefront and rural properties, which can be targets for theft or vandalism. Businesses, particularly in the downtown historic district and along SR 60, often utilize uniformed security for theft prevention and after-hours monitoring. Event security is also popular for local festivals like the Lake Wales Mardi Gras and the Pioneer Days Festival. Many residents in gated communities or with large properties also hire security for access control and periodic patrols to deter trespassing.

Costs in Lake Wales vary based on service type. For unarmed residential patrols, expect to pay $25-$40 per hour. For a dedicated static guard at a residence, rates typically range from $30-$50 per hour. Many Lake Wales security companies offer package deals for regular patrol services, which can reduce the hourly rate. Factors affecting cost include the property's size and location (lakefront properties often command higher rates), the level of training required for officers, and whether services are needed during daytime or overnight hours. Always get detailed quotes from multiple licensed providers.

When hiring event security in Lake Wales, first verify the company holds a valid Florida Class "B" license and that all officers have current Class "D" licenses. Look for experience with local events similar to yours—whether it's at the Lake Wales Arts Center, Bok Tower Gardens, or outdoor venues. Ensure they're familiar with Lake Wales Police Department protocols for event coordination. Ask about their crowd management training and if they're insured for liability specific to Polk County events. Also confirm they can handle the unique aspects of your venue, whether it's parking management at smaller downtown locations or perimeter security for larger outdoor spaces.

Private security in Lake Wales serves as a force multiplier for the Lake Wales Police Department. While police handle emergency response and criminal investigations, private security provides preventive patrols, property monitoring, and immediate visual deterrence. Security officers can respond to minor incidents on private property, document suspicious activity, and serve as additional eyes and ears for law enforcement. Many Lake Wales security companies maintain good working relationships with local police, sharing information about patterns of criminal activity in specific neighborhoods. This partnership allows property owners to enhance their security while freeing police resources for more critical public safety matters.