Patrolling, Observation and Surveillance Techniques
Patrolling, observation and surveillance tests your ability to deter, detect, describe, and record - in that order.
Purpose and types
A patrol is a visible deterrent and a detection system. Types include internal, external or perimeter, vehicle, fixed post, and random versus clocked rounds. Random timing beats a fixed route, because an intruder who learns your pattern simply waits for the gap.
What to check
- Doors, windows, seals, locks, hasps.
- Lighting, fences, gates, CCTV positions and blind spots.
- Fire exits clear, extinguishers in place, no leaks or smells of burning.
- Unattended bags, unfamiliar vehicles, people loitering.
- Use all your senses; smell and sound catch what eyes miss.
Observation and description
Scan systematically - near to far, left to right. Describe head to toe: sex, age, height, build, hair, clothing from top to bottom, shoes, distinguishing marks, direction of travel. Record it; do not rely on memory.
Worked example
At 02:00 on an external round you find a broken window with a bin moved underneath it. Reasoning: do not enter alone and do not touch anything; note the time, photograph if permitted, withdraw to a safe point, call police and the supervisor, preserve the scene, and record any description of people seen. The bin evidences the method of entry.
Traps that cost marks
- Patrolling at exactly the same time every round.
- Touching the door handle or the point of entry.
- Challenging an intruder alone instead of withdrawing and calling.
- Reporting "all normal" without actually checking.