The Best Methods for Performing Security Exercises

Security is a lived reality that requires constant validation through intentional action. It is neither a theoretical concept nor a bureaucratic ideal. This is never clearer than when security drills are conducted. The purpose of drills is to test policies against the harsh realities of real-world threats, environmental factors, and the unpredictable nature of human behaviour. They can be fun, they can be humorous, but they have a serious undertone, they must get results.

Operational readiness, not comfort or spectacle, is the goal of any security exercise. Clarity, self-control, and the regular transformation of knowledge into capable action are the components of readiness. A well-crafted drill reveals vulnerabilities before an enemy can take advantage of them. It develops not only muscle memory but also the humility that results from candid evaluation and the confidence that comes from experience.

The foundation of best practice is scenario selection that is grounded in statistical reality rather than the fantasy of consultants or policy writers who are disconnected from the realities on the front lines. Whether it's theft, intrusion, violence, or coordinated attacks, the focus should be on the data. A drill is just theatre if it doesn't accurately represent the site's true risk profile. The reality is people die in the real world.

Being prepared is essential. Every employee needs to be aware of the goals, parameters, and non-negotiable requirements. However, a certain amount of unpredictability is also a necessary component of effective drills. Actual threats don't respect office hours or make advance announcements. Complacency is prevented by randomising the adversary profile, time, and approach. Because a weak link anywhere jeopardises the entire system, drills must involve all pertinent parties, from entry-level employees to management.

Execution necessitates a strict adherence to time and stress constraints. Drills ought to be carried out with all applicable technology, communications, and reporting channels, at realistic speeds, and under realistic pressures. Observers should document behaviours objectively to provide a factual foundation for debriefing and improvement, not to condemn or commend. A system that only looks for approval encourages mediocrity and doesn't stop people from looking for flaws.

A direct, detailed, and fact-based debriefing is essential to the process. The goal of a drill is to identify and address failure while there is still time to do so, not to spare egos or prevent discomfort. An atmosphere where errors are directly addressed and solutions, not justifications, are sought must be fostered by leadership. Training that glosses over mistakes or avoids necessary conflict in the name of group harmony invites failure in the future.

External viewpoints, such as those of regulatory bodies, industry peers, or adversarial testing teams, are also incorporated into a strong drill process. Closed systems tend to stall, but external challenges give them the new outlook they need to change and advance. Instead of enclosing themselves in a bubble of self-satisfaction, leadership must seek out criticism and take appropriate action.

Drills need to be documented, examined, and utilised to improve personnel assignments, training, and procedures. Failure patterns should be found and fixed by updated protocols, additional training, or, in certain situations, staff changes. Vulnerabilities go unaddressed and deterrence is compromised when people are unwilling to make difficult decisions.

Ultimately, security drill best practices are determined by principle rather than personal preference. Teams must confront difficult realities, grow from them, and develop response patterns that prevent, identify, and eliminate potential threats. Anything less is a surrender to the mediocrity that always comes before failure and a betrayal of trust.

From the author.

The opinions and statements are those of Sam Wilks and do not necessarily represent whom Sam Consults or contracts to. Sam Wilks is a skilled and experienced Security and Risk Consultant with 3 decades of expertise in the fields of Real estate, Security, and the hospitality/gaming industry. Sam has trained over 1,000 entry level security personnel, taught defensive tactics, weapons training and handcuffs to policing personnel and the public. His knowledge and practical experience have made him a valuable asset to many organisations looking to enhance their security measures and provide a safe and secure environment for their clients and staff.