howesecurity

Howe Security Special Response Officer of the Year 2024

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 22:38:04 GMT

Special Response Officer of the Year - Alec Nelson

Our Special Response Officer of the Year award 2024 recognizes Alec Nelson. Alec joined Howe Security on January 1, 2022 and he Ahas consistently demonstrated the dedication, professionalism, and adaptability that embodies the core values of our company.

Alec’s journey at Howe Security has been one of growth and success. He has played a key role across multiple divisions, from Unarmed Guard and School Resource Officer to our Armed Division, which showcases his versatility and commitment to providing the best security solutions for all of our clients.

In December of 2023, Alec was promoted to Special Response Officer, a role in which he has excelled. Since taking on this position, Alec has successfully responded to over 40 accounts, handling each with skill, composure, and efficiency. Alec’s ability to adapt quickly to the demands of the Special Response Officer role speaks to his exceptional training and strong work ethic. His professional approach, even in high-pressure situations, has made him an invaluable asset to our team. Whether responding to an emergency or providing proactive security support, Alec consistently demonstrates the expertise and leadership necessary to ensure the safety and satisfaction of our clients.

In recognition of his outstanding efforts, Alec was also named Employee of the Month in April of 2024, further highlighting his exceptional performance and commitment to excellence. His contributions have not only enhanced Howe Security’s reputation but have also positively impacted the safety and security of those we serve.\\

As we celebrate Alec’s remarkable achievements, we want to take a moment to acknowledge his continued hard work, determination, and success. Alec’s dedication to his role and to Howe Security’s mission of delivering consistent and reliable service since 1967, has truly set him apart, and we look forward to seeing even more great things from him in the coming year.

Please join us in congratulating Alec Nelson on being named Special Response Officer of the Year for 2024. Alec, we are incredibly grateful for all you do, and we can’t wait to see the continued success you bring to Howe Security. Thank you, Alec, for your unwavering dedication and hard work!

Howe Security Supervisor of the Year 2024

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 22:25:01 GMT

Howe Security Supervisor of the Year - C.J. Drake

It is with great pride that we announce C.J. Drake as Howe Security's 2024 Supervisor of the Year. Although C.J. has been with us for just over a year, his contributions have already made a profound impact on our company, our team, and our clients.

C.J. joined Howe Security in 2023 and quickly demonstrated not only his leadership skills but also his unwavering commitment to excellence. In a short period of time, he has shown a remarkable ability to manage teams, resolve challenges, and foster a positive and supportive work environment for all employees. C.J.’s strong communication skills, combined with his hands-on approach, have played a key role in ensuring our operations run smoothly and our clients receive the best service possible.

One of C.J.’s standout qualities is his ability to lead by example. He takes the time to mentor his team, helping them grow both personally and professionally. His calm, approachable demeanor makes him a trusted leader, while his attention to detail ensures that all security operations are executed with precision and care. Whether it’s stepping in to provide support on difficult tasks or ensuring that protocols are followed to the highest standard, C.J. is always ready to roll up his sleeves and get the job done. Since joining Howe Security, C.J. has been instrumental in streamlining operations, improving training programs, and boosting morale across the board.

His leadership has not only improved efficiency but also elevated the overall performance of the teams under his guidance. Clients have praised C.J. for his responsiveness and commitment to ensuring their security needs are met with the utmost professionalism. C.J.'s efforts in building a collaborative and motivated team have been pivotal to the success of Howe Security in 2024.

His dedication, vision, and integrity are exactly what we look for in a leader and we are incredibly fortunate to have him on our team. Please join us in congratulating C.J. on this well-deserved recognition as Howe Security's Supervisor of the Year for 2024. We look forward to even greater success under his leadership in the years to come. Thank you, C.J., for your outstanding contributions to Howe Security. You are truly an invaluable part of our team!

Howe Security Officer of the Year (2024) - Larry Wirth

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 22:20:34 GMT

Howe Security Officer of the Year - Larry Wirth

We are proud to announce that Security Officer Larry Wirth has been selected as the 2024 Howe Security Officer of the Year. Larry has been an integral part of Howe Security for the past 14 years and his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on both our clients and our team.

Throughout his time with Howe Security, Larry has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure our clients receive the highest level of service. From our residential, commercial, and cannabis clients, Larry has built a reputation for providing top-tier security solutions and fostering a trust with every client he serves.

His ability to adapt to diverse needs while maintaining the known quality and integrity of Howe Security speaks to his dedication and expertise. In 2023, Larry was handpicked to assist with a new commercial client in the Lake Forest area and he has been an indispensable part of that partnership ever since.

His efforts have not only helped the client feel secure but also reinforce the core values and professional standards that define Howe Security. Larry’s work has truly embodied the Howe Security way. Larry’s consistent service excellence, hard work, and positive attitude is a reflection of his passion for the security profession and his unwavering commitment to make a difference.

It is with great pleasure that we honor him as Howe Security’s Officer of the Year for 2024. Please join us in congratulating Larry on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to another year of success, growth, and continued excellence with Larry on our team. Thank you, Larry, for all you do for Howe Security. You are truly appreciated!

Is your home protected?

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 17:08:06 GMT

Planning for the unexpected while you are away from your home is truly peace of mind.

Ensuring the safety and security of your home while you are away is a top priority. Whether you are going on a long summer vacation, traveling for business, or simply spending extended time away, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is protected is invaluable. This is where Howe Security’s house watching services come into play.

1. Professional Monitoring

Howe Security employs highly trained professionals who are adept at recognizing and responding to potential security breaches. Unlike relying on a neighbor or a friend, Howe professional house watchers are licensed by the State of Illinois, fully insured, and are dedicated solely to the task of monitoring your home. They are equipped with the skills and knowledge to handle various situations, from detecting suspicious activities to managing emergencies.

2. Regular Inspections

Regular inspections are a cornerstone of Howe Security’s services. House watchers perform routine checks on your property, ensuring that all entry points are secure, alarm systems are functioning correctly, and there are no signs of forced entry or vandalism. These inspections help in identifying and addressing issues before they escalate into significant problems.

3. Response to Alarms

In the event of an alarm trigger, time is of the essence. Howe Security provides a swift response to any alerts, ensuring that potential threats are assessed and dealt with promptly. This rapid response can deter criminals and prevent extensive damage or loss, providing an additional layer of security that is crucial when you are not around to respond yourself.

4. Maintenance Oversight

Aside from security concerns, Howe Security’s house watchers also oversee general maintenance tasks. This includes checking for plumbing leaks, ensuring HVAC systems are operational, and monitoring for other household issues that could arise in your absence. By maintaining your home’s condition, they help prevent costly repairs and preserve the value of your property.

5. Personalized Service

Every home is unique, and so are its security needs. Howe Security offers personalized house watching services tailored to your specific requirements. Whether you need daily checks, weekly inspections, or a custom schedule, their flexible approach ensures that your home receives the attention it deserves.

6. Enhanced Peace of Mind

Ultimately, the greatest benefit of Howe Security’s house watching services is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that your home is under the vigilant eye of trained professionals, under the oversight of Founder Charlie Howe (a Veteran and retired Lieutenant with the Lake Bluff, IL Police Department (27 years), allows you to focus on your travels, work, or relaxation without the constant worry about the safety of your property.

For a minimal investment in Howe Security’s house watching services, you are taking proactive step towards safeguarding your home. Our professional, comprehensive, and personalized approach ensures that your property remains secure and well-maintained, giving you the confidence to be away from home without anxiety. No one can fully prepare for accidental or intentional incidents as shown below but with Howe Security, we will respond when you're unable. Please contact us for more details and pricing.

Who is watching your home when you're away?

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 17:07:41 GMT

Howe Security's house watching division prevented a vacationing homeowner's nightmare.

Since 1967, Howe Security has offered house watching services to homeowners along the North Shore of Chicago during their extended trips away from their residence. Our elite, trusted, and highly trained group of patrol officers within this specialized division report directly to Howe Security, Inc. founder, Charlie Howe.

We provide home security services such as inspecting a home's access points (doors, windows, and garages) ensuring they are secure as well as responding to burglar and fire alarms. Howe Security also offers more day to day personalized services like collecting mail, watering plants, and managing lights and timers. In addition, we check for seasonal occurrences (frozen pipes, storm damage, etc.) and we are trained to look for maintenance issues, which could lead to catastrophic problems such as broken pipes and leaks.

In the image below, Howe Security just recently identified a broken pipe in a homeowner's garage. The client was notified, the officer remained on site until a repair service arrived, and further damage by the leak was contained. Without a reoccurring inspection, the damage could have been significant to the items and materials stored on the ground.

If you live in the North Shore of Chicago, and are planning an extended trip away this summer, please contact Howe Security to see if our services are the right fit for your needs and for your peace of mind while you're away.

Employee Spotlight - Alec Nelson, Employee of the Month, March 2024

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 17:48:29 GMT

It is with great pleasure to announce Alec Nelson as the Howe Security, Inc. Employee of the Month for March 2024. Alec has been an invaluable member of our team since early 2022, consistently demonstrating exceptional professionalism, dedication, and a strong work ethic.

Throughout his time with Howe Security, Alec has exhibited outstanding reliability and bringing a "ready to work" attitude on arrival. He consistently goes above and beyond in his role while demonstrating a commitment to excellence and setting a high standard for his colleagues. Alec's positive attitude and willingness to help others make him an invaluable asset to the team.

Alec's interactions with both clients, guards, and management are often characterized as respectful and courteous. He treats everyone with the utmost respect, which creates a positive and welcoming environment. Alec's dedication to providing exceptional service reflects positively on Howe Security and is greatly appreciated by both our team and our clients.

We are incredibly grateful for Alec's hard work and dedication and we are pleased to recognize his contributions with this award. Please join us in congratulating Alec on this well-deserved honor. Thank you, Alec, for everything you do for us here at Howe Security. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and we are proud to have you as a member of our team.

Employee Spotlight -Jordan Kane, Employee of the Month, February 2024

jonclark@howesecurity.com — Sun, 03 Mar 2024 08:15:07 GMT

Guarding with Precision: Jordan Kane's Commitment to Security and Customer Service

In the realm of security, individuals like Jordan Kane stand out as exemplars of professionalism and dedication. He is our Employee of the Month for February 2024. As a security officer in our armed division, Jordan plays a crucial role in safeguarding a cannabis dispensary, where his unwavering commitment to security is complemented by exceptional customer service skills and an impressive attention to detail. Security officers are often the unsung heroes, working behind the scenes to ensure the safety of people, staff, and property. Jordan takes this responsibility to heart, demonstrating a remarkable blend of vigilance and courtesy.

One of Jordan's standout qualities is his impeccable attention to detail. In the ever-evolving landscape of security threats, his keen observation skills are a valuable asset. However, what truly sets Jordan apart is his exceptional customer service skills. Despite the serious nature of his role, he approaches interactions with patrons and patients with a friendly demeanor, making them feel welcome and secure. Jordan understands that a positive customer experience is essential, even in a high-security setting. His ability to balance the seriousness of his role with a personable touch has garnered praise from both customers and staff alike.

In the cannabis industry, where the delicate balance between security and customer experience is crucial, Jordan emerged quickly as a model security officer. His dedication to the safety of the dispensary he protects, combined with his outstanding customer service skills, creates an atmosphere where patrons and patients can confidently access their products while feeling valued and secure.

As we celebrate the unsung heroes in various professions, we also like to take a moment to recognize and appreciate individuals like Jordan Kane, whose commitment to security and customer service elevates the standards of excellence in the security industry.

Employee Spotlight - Anthony Colon, Employee of the Month, January 2024

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 00:34:36 GMT

At Howe Security, we take pride in recognizing outstanding individuals who go above and beyond in ensuring the safety and well-being of our clients. For January 2024, we shine a spotlight on Anthony Colon, a dedicated security officer whose commitment to excellence has earned him the title of Employee of the Month.

Anthony's journey with Howe Security began two years ago, and since then, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attentiveness, and a strong sense of responsibility. His colleagues and managers describe him as a reliable team player who always brings a positive attitude to the workplace.

One of Anthony's notable qualities is his unwavering commitment to the safety and security of the premises he oversees. Whether conducting routine patrols, professionally engaging clients and staff, or responding to incidents, Anthony consistently exhibits a high level of vigilance and attention to detail. His dedication has not only contributed to a safer environment for our clients but has also set a standard for excellence within our security team.

What sets Anthony apart is his exceptional interpersonal skills. He understands the importance of building positive relationships with both clients and colleagues. Anthony's approachability and friendly demeanor make him not only an effective security officer but also someone people feel comfortable approaching with their concerns or questions.

In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities, Anthony actively seeks opportunities for professional development. Whether attending training sessions, staying updated on the latest security protocols, available for assignments, or participating in team-building activities, he exemplifies a commitment to continuous improvement.

In celebrating Anthony Colon, we not only recognize an outstanding security officer but also reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture of excellence at Howe Security. Anthony's dedication serves as an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to witnessing his continued success in the months and years to come.

Veterans Day 2023

jonclark@howesecurity.com — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 19:30:21 GMT

Honoring Our Heroes: The Importance of Veterans Day

Every year on November 11th, we come together as a nation to observe Veterans Day. This solemn occasion serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces. Veterans Day is not just a day off from work or school; it is a specific day to underscore, honor and express our gratitude to those who have selflessly defended our freedom. Howe Security is a U.S. Veteran owned business, which began in 1967 by Charlie Howe after serving in Vietnam as a Green Beret in the U.S. Army 5th Special Forces. As such, Veterans Day in particularly meaningful for our family and our company about those who wear an Armed Forces uniform and serve our nation all the around the world.

Commemorating Sacrifice and Service

Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, was established to mark the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. It was a day to celebrate peace and to remember the brave soldiers who had fought in the "war to end all wars." Over time, the holiday evolved to recognize all veterans from different eras and conflicts, acknowledging their contributions to our country.

Reflecting on the Valor of Veterans

The importance of Veterans Day lies in the opportunity it provides for all of us to reflect on the valor and dedication of our veterans. These men and women have faced unimaginable challenges and risks to protect our nation and preserve our way of life. Their courage knows no bounds, and we owe them an immeasurable debt of gratitude.

Fostering Unity and Patriotism

Veterans Day also serves to unite us as a country. Regardless of our differences, on this day, we stand together in appreciation of our veterans. It's a time to put aside political, social, and cultural divisions and come together as one people, bonded by our shared respect for those who serve and have served.

Supporting Veterans Year-Round

While Veterans Day is a special day of recognition, it's crucial to remember that our veterans need our support and appreciation throughout the year. Many veterans face unique challenges when they return to civilian life, including physical and mental health issues. Organizations and initiatives that provide assistance to veterans are invaluable and worthy of our support.

Veterans Day is a day to pay tribute to the brave individuals who have defended our freedom, and to reflect on the sacrifices they have made and continue to make each and every day. Let's not limit our appreciation to just one day a year but extend our support and respect to them year-round. Our veterans have given so much; it's only fitting that we give back in return.

That's A Wrap!

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 20:15:02 GMT

Howe Security Film Production On-Location Security Services

Howe Security recently wrapped up providing security services over a three week period for a major motion picture studio and a major online streaming service, which included shifting coverages across multiple locations and providing street closures through our vehicle patrol division.

Behind the mesmerizing scenes and captivating storylines of the movies and TV shows we love, there is an army of dedicated professionals working tirelessly to bring these productions to life. While creativity and talent fuel the industry, the importance of security cannot be overstated. In this blog post, we delve into our experiences, challenges and strategies involved in providing on-location security for the film industry:

The Dynamic World of Filming Locations :

From bustling city streets to remote sites, each location presents unique security challenges. Ensuring the safety of the cast, crew, equipment, and sensitive content becomes paramount. The security team must meticulously plan, coordinate, and execute security measures tailored to each filming location and each officer must adhere to a strict code of confidentiality. On site and roving supervision is always advised.

Assessing Potential Threats :

Before cameras start rolling, a comprehensive risk assessment is conducted. This evaluation identifies potential security threats such as trespassing, unauthorized access, theft, sabotage, and even leaks of sensitive content online. By understanding these risks, the security team can formulate proactive strategies to mitigate them effectively.

Customized Security Plans :

Based on the risk assessment, tailored security plans are developed for each filming location. These plans include a combination of physical security measures and personnel deployment. The team may need to collaborate with local law enforcement agencies, as we did relative to street closures, and certainly should with the production staff to create a layered security approach.

Robust Perimeter Security :

One of the primary concerns during filming is maintaining control over the filming location and its surroundings. The security team establishes perimeter security measures, which may involve quick changes to deployed security personnel and utilize marked security vehicles to monitor entrances and exits. This helps deter unauthorized access and provides an early warning system for potential breaches.

Access Control and Credentials :

Controlling access to filming locations is crucial for maintaining a secure environment. The security team works with the production staff to understand and look for specific crew badging and credentials in order to establish access protocols for sensitive areas such as sets, talent staging, trailers, food service, and overnight equipment storage.

Weather Preparedness :

Contingency plans and scheduling flexibility are vital components of on-location security. The security team must be prepared for delays as even the slightest turn in the weather could result in the cancelation of filming on any given day thereby extending the production process and the need for extended security coverage.

If you're in need of armed or unarmed security personnel for your on-location productions, please visit www.howesecurity.com and contact us about our services and capabilities.

Q&A with Charlie Howe, CEO & Founder Howe Security, Inc.

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 17:12:01 GMT

1. As a United States military veteran, please tell us a little bit your time in the military. For example, years served, branch, where you served, rank, etc.

I entered the service in October 1963 with a high school friend. We were both captains of our high school football team and joined under the "buddy system", which meant we were suppose to stay together during our three years although it didn't happen. I was in the Army Special Forces (5th Special Forces Group, 1st Special Forces Command) in Vietnam. I took basic training in Fort Knox, KY; paratrooper training in Fort Gordon, GA; jump school training in Fort Benning, GA; and Green Beret training in Fort Bragg, NC. I was officially an E-4 and, after my service overseas, I was in the Army Reserves from 1966-1969.

2. After completing your military service, you settled down along the North Shore of Chicago, Illinois and joined the Lake Bluff Police Department. Please tell a bit about that transition to municipal law enforcement along with your years working with the Lake Bluff PD, roles within the police department, and your rank upon retirement.

I was hired by the Village of Lake Bluff in October 1967 as a police officer after a recruitment call from their police department. Working as a patrolman, Sergeant, and eventually Lieutenant (second in charge of the Police Department), I retired in June 1995 with over twenty-five years of service to the community. During my time, I attended and graduated numerous training courses including the Traffic Institute - Northwestern University, the American Police Academy - Lake County College, and I held specialized roles such as Breathalyzer Operator, Evidence Technician (overseeing the Evidence Room), Shift Commander, Traffic Services Supervision, Scheduling Officer, and in charge of day to day department operations.

3. What year did the company begin operations and what motivated you to start Howe Security, Inc.? Did your service in the military and work a police officer influence the way you run the company?

I founded Howe Security, Inc. in 1967 after knowing a retired Lake Bluff Police Department Sergeant who would check in on homes in the area when residents would leave town. At the time, only a few homes had burglar alarms so, there was a need for house watching. I think my military and police background had a lot to do beginning Howe Security, Inc. as I knew "how to work" and how to talk to people. As time went on, the business grew and, back then, raising a family on a police officer's salary was difficult so, I continued to operate and grow the business.

4. Tell us a bit about your first client or clients of Howe Security, Inc.? What types of services did you provide and do you still serve that industry?

Our first clients were house watching customers. I would check their houses while they were away on vacation or left for the winter. Our services included plant watering, collecting mail and packages, check basements for water leaks, furnace/boilers checks, looked for frozen pipes, or animal/rodent infestation. We still provide those services, plus more, today and I continue to oversee the house watching division.

5. What do you believe sets Howe Security, Inc. apart from your competition?

I think the best thing that sets Howe Security apart is following a "do what you say you're going to do" attitude for our customers. As a small, family owned business, I would also add our employees are our best ambassadors. In recognition, we've always provided higher than industry average wages and provided our management team's support. In return, we expect a polite, well uniformed, knowledgable, and professional level of service to be delivered to our customers, as officers are representatives of the Howe family name.

6. How do you ensure your employees provide a high level of customer service to your clients?

Communication is very important. I try to speak to as many employees as I can and my two sons (Bill and Chuck) oversee our business operations so, they are in constant communication with our officers, supervisors, and customers. In addition, we deploy overnight mobile field supervision to not only ensure officers are where they need to be, are on time, and in uniform but they also see if the officers need anything from us to help them with their assignment. I feel if you treat your employees well, they will respond back to you by treating the job with respect and our customers see that.

7. Can you tell us about a particularly challenging security situation that the company has been involved in and how it was handled?

There are many situations we've handled over the last 50 years. We had an incident of a house we watched in Highland Park. I carry a police radio and heard the call for an alarm at a house I had just inspected hours earlier. There was a car in the driveway and a smashed window but the police said they went inside and saw no one. I called the Highland Park PD and returned to the home. I said the car was not previously there, the owners were away, and the home had several areas in the basement where one could easily hide include a secret room. The police went back inside and eventually found and arrested a burglar. Our client was an attorney for a Fortune 500 company and was thrilled about our involvement and response.

More recently, we protect a low income housing development along the North Shore of Chicago. Trespassing, domestic violence, and robberies are common. We have a specially trained (armed) tactical unit working the account and we have a strong partnership with the local police department. One evening, a domestic disturbance escalated into a female being shot by a male. Our team tracked down and detained the offender within minutes while our onsite supervision performed life saving measures on the female, as they waited for emergency transport. While she succumbed to her injuries, our employees performed without hesitation, utilized their training, and acted heroically.

8. What do you think the future of the contract security industry looks like and how will Howe Security, Inc. position itself for continued success?

I think it gets tougher everyday. The big companies just keep getting bigger through acquisition, low wages to leverage volume, and there are more and more prospects who simply prefer that easier style of security commoditization. We're a certified small family business that's Veteran owned and we seek (and do best with) clients who prefer to deal with real people, at a fair price, and with a business committed to delivering flexible, reliable, and professional security services. Our family is constantly on top of the business and the changes within the industry. We do see new firms entering the market but I wonder how long they can last and without the municipal, county, and state law enforcement relationships we developed over decades as emergency partners? Industry education, experience, and common sense are very important but hard to come by these days. I'm confident; however, after seeing my sons' abilities working with clients, employees, and their overall experience in business operations that we are in a strong position to continue to be successful and remain independent.

9. What advice would you give someone who is interested in starting their own contract security firm?

I don't give out advice to anyone trying to start up a security company. That person could come back and be one of your main competitors.

10. As CEO and Founder of Howe Security, Inc. what is the best part of your job?

Working with my two sons. It is very enlightening to see how they work and to watch their business efforts grow the company bigger and better each year. Second, I always love to talk to the people that hire our company. It doesn't matter who they are or how much money they make, I treat all of them with respect. I have never changed.

Residential & Commercial Patrols

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 17:01:55 GMT

Howe Security has you covered.

For homeowners preparing to depart the frigid midwest for warmer temperatures in the South and beyond with extended vacations or "snowbirding" to their second home, while you're away, who is protecting your home and your property? Setting an alarm won't check water lines, collect mail, meet with contractors, and water plants, but we will. Howe Security, Inc. was founded in 1967 by Charlie Howe, a Green Beret, Viet Nam veteran and retired Lieutenant with the Lake Bluff Police Department. The business began establishing it's roots along the North Shore of Chicago by initially providing residential security services and patrols. Fifty-five years later, Howe Security, Inc. is still providing residential security services and patrols to homeowners and residential communities along the North Shore and that division is still led by Charlie Howe.

In addition to Charlie, only his two sons and a very select few of tenured employees are entrusted to work in this division because of the sensitive nature when entering someone's home. We treat each home as if it were our own and vigilantly provide perimeter checks for damage, break-ins, or vandalism in addition to an array of services that may include mail collection, plant watering, water line checks, leaks, feeding pets (no dogs), and checking doors and windows. Howe Security, Inc. also has the capabilities to respond to burglar and fire alarms. The photo shows a recent discovery of an attempted break-in at a home we protect. Upon arrival, in our Howe Security marked patrol vehicle, our security officer performed a perimeter check and observed a small, side door leading to the kitchen with its glass shattered. The homeowner and police were immediately called. The offender was not caught but Howe Security remained onsite and helped coordinate board up services.

It is also the season for commercial businesses, without a 24/7 security presence, to be concerned about frozen pipes and leaks, access doors not closing properly, and vagrants seeking shelter in and around the property. Our commercial mobile patrol services offer businesses an affordable alternative to having an onsite presence after hours. The photo shows a client's drain pipe, which broke and began leaking a considerable amount of water on the floor. During our after hour patrol inspection, our officer noticed the break and was able to contact the building's engineer who rushed to the scene. Our officer remained onsite until his arrival. While the instance is an exception, it is peace of mind in having our patrol service provide exterior and/or interior inspections of your property and particularly during the upcoming winter months.

To learn more about our residential and commercial patrol services, please contact us here .

Security Officer Heroism

jonclark@howesecurity.com — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 04:28:25 GMT

Security Officer Heroism

Security Officer Jorge Ragghianti Saves the Lives of Two Children

On September 18, 2022, Security Officer Jorge Ragghianti was alerted to smoke rising from a vehicle in our client's parking lot located in the town of Lakewood, Ohio. As he approached, the smoke intensified and he noticed a child screaming for help inside the vehicle. Initially, he used his fists and elbows to attempt to shatter the glass; however, the windows wouldn't break and the smoke continued to build. In search of a tool to help, he then ran to his own vehicle (pictured below) to retrieve a tire iron from the car's trunk. Within seconds, he was able to quickly break through a side window and pull the child outside of the car. After the child was safely removed, he heard a second child screaming from within, as flames and smoke further engulfed the car. He promptly broke out the rear window, reached in, and pulled the second child out. Within seconds of carrying the child away to safety, the vehicle burst into flames and Jorge collapsed, overcome from smoke inhalation and several other injuries (pictured below).

Throughout this entire ordeal, Security Officer Ragghianti didn't hesitate to jump to action, despite bystanders in the area who were reluctant to assist. As Lakewood city Fire Chief, Tim Dunphy, told The Lakewood Observer, "...if Jorge had not been there, those kids would be dead today."

A proud Uruguayan immigrant, and a decorated kickboxing champion, Jorge was eager to return to his post despite still recovering from injuries sustained during the incident. In fact, several members of our outstanding local Ohio team, led by Regional Manager Eric Fernandez, informed us that while still in his hospital room, only a day after being admitted, Jorge was already looking forward to getting back to work.

We are proud to share that on October 9, 2022, Jorge Ragghianti was honored by the City of Lakewood, the Lakewood Police Department, and the Lakewood Fire Department, in a ceremony presenting him with the City of Lakewood's Public Safety Civilian Act of Valor Award. In addition, the President of the Ohio Senate, Senator Matt Huffman, led the Ohio State Senate in tribute to Jorge's award with a commendation of gratitude for his heroism.

In the private security industry, we understand and respect that our officers are first responders. While Jorge's act of heroism was indeed exceptional, we are reminded every day of the hard working men and women who put on a private security uniform and continually sacrifice to protect our client's employees, customers, and property. Please join Howe Security and A&A Security in celebrating the heroic actions of Security Officer Jorge Ragghianti and all of the hard working private security officers.