The hotel industry has seen steady growth over the last several years. According to a 2019 U.S. Travel and Hospitality Outlook published by Deloitte, hotel gross bookings in the U.S. grew from $116 billion in 2009 to $185 billion in 2017. Due to the growing demand, hotels across the country face higher risks that make them vulnerable to costly lawsuits. Hotel security services are designed to minimize these risks while protecting guests and employees against potential crime, property damage and personal injuries.
Why Do Hotels Need Security?
Recreational and business travelers expect safe and secure hotel accommodations. Most hotels have standard security protocols in place that help prevent stolen belongings, invasions of privacy and similar incidents from occurring on hotel premises. However, these safeguards are not always sufficient, especially in larger hotels with dozens or even hundreds of guest rooms. Professional security officers understand the various threats and nuances that occur on hotel grounds and have the knowledge and training required to swiftly deal with difficult situations without disturbing other guests.
Top 3 Benefits of Hotel Security Services
There are more than 54,200 hotel properties in the U.S. that consist of more than five million guestrooms, according to the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Staff and management are responsible for keeping these properties safe for employees, guests and visitors. Hiring hotel security services has been found to help limit or prevent property damage, deter crime, monitor key card access, help staff implement safety measures and patrol the grounds. Hotel security professionals can also provide prompt emergency response to all types of difficult situations. Here is a closer look at some top benefits of hotel security services.
Crime Prevention On Hotel Grounds
While hotel crime is more common in populous cities and larger hotels, any establishment in the hospitality industry can become a victim of crime. Understanding the prevalence of crime on hotel grounds, many travelers admit to experiencing a fear of crime when visiting hotels.
A study published in the Journal of Travel & Tourism Marketing analyzed TripAdvisor reviews written by 873 hotel guests to develop a typology of hotel crime. The study found that higher-class hotels more commonly encountered crimes like theft, burglary and fraud, while lower-class hotels had more drug and prostitution-related activities occurring on the premises.
Hotel security services can prevent crimes on hotel grounds, as the presence of security officers serves as a deterrent to criminals. Security officers are also able to respond to incidents of attempted crime as they are happening, minimizing damages and the risk of violence or injury.
Prevention of Damage To Hotel Property
With guests and visitors constantly coming and going, it makes sense that property damage on hotel property is bound to happen. However, not all types of hotel damage are accidental. In some instances, guests or visitors may purposely cause damage to the interior or exterior of a hotel.
From broken windows in guest rooms to damaged cars in the parking lot, damages that occur on hotel property can often result in costly lawsuits and a damaged reputation. Depending on the circumstances of the property damage, insurance may or may not cover the damages.
Hotel security services work to lower incidents of hotel property damage by patrolling the premises and stopping these crimes before they escalate. Professional security officers can also monitor security cameras to help catch perpetrators in the act.
Option of Protection for VIP Guests
Musicians, actors, celebrities and other very important people may require more security than the average guest. When VIPs choose to stay at a particular hotel, they may expect additional security to prevent disruptions and to remain safe in their room.
High-profile travelers commonly stay at luxury hotels, and while their visit is always welcomed, VIPs can sometimes draw crowds or paparazzi. To keep VIP guests safe and prevent disturbing other guests in the hotel, hotel security services are available to provide crowd control, prevent access to private areas, escort guests to their rooms and ensure that the guest is not bothered during their stay.
Hotels aim to keep VIP guests happy and content during their stay to encourage them to return again. Having the option of professional hotel security services can help maintain the hotel’s reputation and prevent incidents that could threaten the comfort and safety of guests.
Consider Professional Hotel Security Services With American Protection Group
Experienced hotel security companies offer a wide range of security services to the hospitality industry. The implementation of security solutions such as armed or unarmed security officers, surveillance and monitoring services improves security, mitigates risk damage and enhances the customer experience. For dependable security services offered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, rely on American Protection Group. Get in contact with our team by phone at (877) 713-1559 or request a free quote online.