Why Do Security Patrol Cars Have Lights and Sirens if People Know They’re Not Cops?
Investigating the mystery of security patrol cars with lights and sirens can be quite intriguing. The main purpose of these vehicles is to deter criminal activities and report any incidents they witness. However, it is important to note that, unlike police cars, security patrol cars are seldom permitted to use red and blue emergency lights. Instead, they often rely on amber lights to increase visibility and establish a strong presence.
The Role of Security Patrol Cars
Security patrol cars are strategically used to patrol areas such as shopping malls, corporate campuses, and residential complexes. Their primary objective is to deter criminal activities like vehicle burglaries and assaults in the parking lots by establishing a strong presence. The use of overhead amber lights helps in achieving this by enhancing visibility and deterring potential criminals.
Understanding the Light Usage
Security patrol cars are seldom equipped with sirens and red/blue emergency lights, which are typically reserved for law enforcement vehicles. Instead, some security patrol cars may use yellow lights to draw attention to their presence in cases where it is necessary. These lights are not used to pull people over or demand right of way. Rather, they are used to alert other vehicles and pedestrians to their presence, especially in low-visibility situations or when there is a need to draw attention to a specific area.
Similar to Other Vehicles
The use of yellow lights in security patrol cars is similar to the use of lights on tow trucks or other emergency vehicles. These lights are designed to enhance visibility and alert others to the vehicle's presence. For instance, in my country, we have rarely seen security patrol cars equipped with red and blue emergency lights. Instead, they rely on yellow lights to maintain a reassuring and visible presence.
Conclusion
In summary, security patrol cars use lights and sirens primarily to enhance their presence and deter criminal activities. While they are not equipped with the same lights as police cars, their yellow lights serve a similar purpose to help maintain security and alert others to their presence. Understanding the role and usage of these lights is crucial in appreciating the efforts made by security personnel to ensure safety and security in our communities.