The Best Private Security in Homer, OH

In Ohio, all private security personnel and companies must be licensed through the Ohio Department of Public Safety's Division of Homeland Security, Private Investigator Security Guard Services (PISGS). This is a state-level requirement that applies in Homer and Licking County. Individual security guards need to complete 20 hours of pre-assignment training, pass a background check, and obtain a registration card. Security companies must hold a Class A, B, or C license. It's crucial to verify that any company you hire in Homer displays its valid Ohio license number. Local Homer ordinances do not impose additional licensing, but companies must comply with all state regulations.

Given Homer's small-town, rural setting within Licking County, the most common private security needs revolve around property protection during absences, special events, and for small businesses. Services frequently requested include: vacant property checks for farms or homes when owners are away, static guard services for local community events (like the Homer Firemen's Festival), overnight security for construction sites or agricultural storage facilities, and alarm response verification for homes or Main Street businesses. Mobile patrols are also popular for covering larger rural properties on the outskirts of town. Unlike urban areas, armed security is less common and typically only requested for high-value assets or cash transport.

Homer's rural nature in central Ohio impacts both cost and logistics. Security service rates can be slightly higher than in Columbus due to travel time for personnel coming from population centers like Newark or Mount Vernon. Expect to discuss travel fees for services. For emergency response, it's important to understand that while a security guard may be on-site for a scheduled shift, an alarm response from a mobile patrol unit will have longer arrival times compared to an urban area, depending on where the company is based. A reputable local or regional company will be transparent about their typical response times from their nearest dispatch point. Always confirm coverage areas and response time guarantees in your contract.

When hiring in Homer, prioritize companies with proven experience in rural and small-town environments. Key things to look for include: 1) A valid Ohio PISGS license, as mentioned. 2) Proof of comprehensive liability insurance that specifically covers operations in Licking County. 3) Local knowledge—ask if they are familiar with Homer's layout, the Licking County Sheriff's non-emergency line, and typical local risks. 4) Clear communication protocols for how they will coordinate with the Licking County Sheriff's Office if needed. 5) References from other clients in similar rural settings. Avoid companies that seem unfamiliar with the area or cannot provide verifiable local references.

The Village of Homer does not have specific ordinances that uniquely govern the on-site actions of private security guards beyond standard Ohio law. However, guards and their employers must comply with all Ohio Revised Code statutes regarding authority, use of force, and detention. Importantly, private security personnel in Homer have no special police powers; they act as private citizens. Their authority is generally limited to the property they are contracted to protect. They should be trained to immediately contact the Licking County Sheriff's Office for any situation requiring law enforcement intervention. It's advisable to discuss and document in your service agreement the specific protocols for engaging with trespassers or handling suspicious activity, ensuring they align with both Ohio law and your personal liability concerns.