The Best Private Security in Reedsville, PA

In Reedsville, Pennsylvania, all private security companies and individual security guards must be licensed by the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) under the Lethal Weapons Training Act (Act 235). Companies must also be licensed as a 'Private Detective Agency' under Act 75 if they conduct investigative work. For unarmed security, Act 235 certification is not required, but many reputable firms still ensure their personnel complete PSP-approved basic training. Before hiring, always verify a company's PSP license status and ask for proof of their guards' Act 235 certification if armed services are needed. Local Reedsville or Mifflin County ordinances do not impose additional licensing, but state compliance is mandatory.

Given Reedsville's location in rural Mifflin County, common security needs include residential property patrols for larger estates or farms, event security for local festivals or weddings, and asset protection for agricultural equipment or small businesses. Mobile patrol services are popular for checking on vacant properties or construction sites. Many residents also seek temporary security for special occasions. Unlike urban areas, services here often emphasize a visible deterrent to theft or vandalism in low-traffic areas and may involve coordination with the Pennsylvania State Police barracks in nearby Lewistown for response protocols.

Costs in Reedsville are generally lower than in metropolitan areas like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh due to lower overhead and less competitive demand. For unarmed static guards, you might expect $25-$40 per hour, while armed services range from $40-$60+ per hour. Key pricing factors include the service type (mobile patrol vs. dedicated guard), required hours (24/7 coverage costs more), whether guards are armed (Act 235 certified), and travel distances for patrols in the surrounding rural areas. Many local companies offer customized packages for Mifflin County residents, which can be more cost-effective than hiring from distant urban firms that charge travel fees.

First, confirm their Pennsylvania State Police licensing (Act 75 for the agency, Act 235 for armed guards). Look for companies with local knowledge of Reedsville's geography and community dynamics—they should understand the response times of the Pennsylvania State Police and local fire companies. Check for adequate insurance, including general liability and workers' compensation. Ask for references from other clients in Mifflin County. Inquire about their hiring and training processes, especially for dealing with rural property issues. A reputable firm will provide a clear contract detailing services, costs, and reporting procedures, and should be willing to conduct an on-site assessment of your Reedsville property.

Private security officers in Reedsville have the same arrest powers as any private citizen under Pennsylvania law, which means they can make a 'citizen's arrest' for a felony or breach of the peace witnessed in their presence. However, they cannot detain individuals for minor offenses or without probable cause. Their primary role is to observe, report, and deter crime by being a visible presence. They should immediately contact the Pennsylvania State Police (the primary law enforcement for the area) for any situation requiring police intervention. A professional security company will train its guards on de-escalation techniques and strict protocols for handling suspicious persons, emphasizing communication with local authorities over direct confrontation.