Security firms see
big jump in demand
after Iraq war

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By Erika Engle
eengle@starbulletin.com

Advertising budgets may be eyed for possible cuts, but security spending has increased at many Hawaii companies.

As a temporary measure, KHON and KGMB retained special duty police officers for round-the-clock coverage of both TV stations after finding other providers of armed security services tapped out.

Rick Blangiardi, who oversees both stations, felt it was the right thing to do given the circumstances and potential threat to employees and operations.

Akal Security and The Wackenhut Corp. provide armed protection, according to Albert "Spike" Denis, chief executive officer of Safeguard Services Inc.; his company does not have the kinds of contracts that require armed guards.

Business has increased along with the terror alert level, said Denis. His clients are mostly shopping centers and commercial buildings where security officers have purposely become more visible to present a deterrent for any ill intent.

"I've asked that our clients, the property managers, integrate security forces with the other building staff members," he said. That increases protection for the entire physical plant as well as key sensitive areas within.

Freeman Guards Inc. has also seen an increase in sales. "We're making attempts to acquire new manpower," according to account manager Jon Iese.

"We've had a pretty good increase. Clients have called to add on officers at government buildings, anyone affiliated with airlines, chemical companies, all calling to add on security," he said.

The prevailing motivation was not direct threat, but to assure employees' safety and maintain normal operations, Iese said.

There had not been an increase in requests for protection for personal security, he said.