The Best Private Security in Danville, WV

In Danville and throughout West Virginia, private security companies and individual guards must be licensed by the West Virginia Secretary of State's Private Investigator and Security Guard Licensing Board. Companies must submit proof of insurance, undergo a background check, and meet specific business requirements. Individual guards must complete 16 hours of board-approved training, pass a criminal background check, and be at least 18 years old. It's crucial to verify that any security provider you hire in Danville displays a valid state license, as local Boone County ordinances also require compliance with state law. Unlicensed operation is a misdemeanor offense.

Given Danville's location in Boone County and its mix of residential, small business, and occasional larger event needs, common security services include: 1) Static site security for local businesses, especially those with evening hours or handling cash; 2) Residential patrol and alarm response for homes in more isolated areas of the county; 3) Event security for community gatherings, festivals, or private events at local venues; 4) Asset protection for construction sites or equipment storage yards, which are prevalent in the region; and 5) Executive or personal protection for professionals traveling through or conducting business in the area. Many local providers offer mobile patrols that can cover the Danville area and surrounding communities efficiently.

Costs in Danville and Boone County are generally lower than in major West Virginia cities like Charleston. For an unarmed security guard, expect to pay between $20 to $30 per hour. Armed guards typically range from $30 to $45 per hour. For a small business needing a guard for an 8-hour shift, this translates to roughly $160-$240 per day for unarmed service. Event security is often priced as a package; a basic 4-hour event with one guard might cost $150-$250. Factors affecting cost include the required level of training (e.g., first aid/CPR certification), the duration and risk level of the assignment, and whether specialized equipment or vehicles are needed. Always request a detailed, written quote from local providers.

When hiring in Danville, prioritize: 1) **Valid State License:** Confirm the company's license is active with the WV licensing board. 2) **Local Knowledge & Presence:** A company familiar with Danville's layout, local ordinances, and the Boone County Sheriff's Office procedures can respond more effectively. 3) **Insurance:** Ensure they carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance to protect you from liability. 4) **Training Records:** Inquire about their guard training programs, which should exceed the state minimum and include de-escalation and local protocol training. 5) **References:** Ask for references from other local businesses or residents in the Danville area. 6) **Communication Plan:** Understand how they will coordinate with the Boone County 911 center and local law enforcement if an incident occurs.

Private security guards in Danville, like all in West Virginia, have the same arrest authority as any private citizen. This is known as a 'citizen's arrest,' which allows them to detain an individual if they have witnessed a felony or a breach of the peace (misdemeanor) occurring in their presence. However, they must immediately contact the Boone County Sheriff's Office or Danville local police (if applicable) and turn the individual over to law enforcement. Guards cannot use excessive force and act at their own legal risk. Their primary role is to observe, report, deter crime, and protect property. A reputable security company in Danville will have clear policies on detention procedures and emphasize de-escalation and cooperation with local authorities.