The Best Private Security in Arlington, OH

In Ohio, private security services are regulated at the state level by the Ohio Department of Public Safety's Private Investigator Security Guard Services (PISGS) section. Any company or individual providing armed or unarmed security services in Arlington must be licensed by the state. This involves background checks, fingerprinting, and specific training requirements (including 20 hours of pre-assignment training for unarmed guards and additional firearms training for armed guards). Companies must also carry liability insurance. It's crucial to verify that any security provider you hire in Arlington holds a valid, current Ohio PISGS license.

Given Arlington's small-town, rural setting in Hancock County, common security needs include residential property patrols for larger rural properties or farms, event security for local festivals or weddings, and overnight security for businesses like manufacturing facilities, agricultural supply companies, or storage yards. Mobile patrol services are popular for checking on multiple properties. Due to the proximity to larger areas like Findlay, some residents also seek executive protection or residential security for professionals commuting from Arlington. The specific threat profile is often more focused on property crime, trespassing, and vandalism rather than the dense urban concerns of a major city.

Costs in Arlington are generally lower than in major Ohio metropolitan areas but can vary based on service type. For an unarmed security officer, you might expect an hourly rate between $25-$40. Armed security officers typically range from $35-$55 per hour. Mobile patrol services, where an officer checks your property at random intervals, are often offered at a flat monthly rate, which could be $200-$500+ depending on frequency and property size. Event security is usually quoted per event or per officer per hour. Always get detailed, written quotes from licensed providers that outline all fees, including any charges for travel from their base of operations (which may be in a nearby town like Findlay).

First and foremost, verify their Ohio PISGS license is current and in good standing. Ask for proof of insurance (general liability and workers' compensation). Inquire about their hiring and training processes for guards—reputable companies conduct thorough background checks and provide ongoing training. Look for a company familiar with the Arlington and Hancock County area; they will understand local patterns and have established relationships with the Arlington Police Department and Hancock County Sheriff's Office, which is vital for effective coordination. Ask for local references from past clients with similar needs (e.g., other farmers, business owners, or event organizers in the area). Finally, ensure their communication style and proposed security plan align with your specific concerns.

Professional security companies serving Arlington should have established protocols for contacting and working with the Arlington Police Department and the Hancock County Sheriff's Office. Their role is observational and deterrent; they do not have police powers. In the event of a crime in progress or a serious incident, their protocol should be to immediately contact 911 and report to the responding law enforcement officers, providing witness statements and any recorded evidence (like CCTV footage). A good security provider will often have a point of contact within local agencies and understand the jurisdictional boundaries in the rural parts of the county. This cooperative relationship is essential for community safety and ensures security services complement, rather than complicate, public law enforcement efforts in the area.