On the cold winter afternoon of December 9th, 2020, Prudencio demonstrated tremendous bravery and grace under pressure by reacting quickly and decisively to ensure the safety of two students and a parent at a crosswalk just outside of the grounds of the school at which he worked.

When a car ran a red light at the crosswalk, Prudencio reacted quickly, preventing a potentially fatal situation by keeping the pedestrians from walking into the path of the oncoming vehicle.

The incident took place just after classes let out in the late afternoon, as the students were heading home from school.

“He saved [two children] and parent as they were crossing and a car ran through the red light, narrowly striking them as they were crossing. Luckily, he held the kids back,” described a witness to the event.

Prudencio has been recognized by the Canadian Security Lifesaver Association for Unwavering Heroism in his line of duty for actions during this frightening incident. The Canadian Security Lifesaver Association is a non-profit organization devoted to recognizing and awarding efforts made by the 140,000 licenced Canadian security guards that rise above and beyond the call of duty.

“Prudencio has been a dedicated, high-performing Condor employee for nearly a decade and we couldn’t be happier to celebrate his brave conduct,” says Benjamin Tabesh, CEO of Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in. “We are very grateful that his swift actions prevented a heartbreaking tragedy and applaud his recognition by the Canadian Security Lifesaver Association.”

Prudencio has been with Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in since May, 2012. Condor offers quality security training and takes pride in rigorously preparing our security guards to respond in stressful situations.

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By standard definition, a citizen neighborhood watch security program consists of an organized group of civilians that collectively agree to devote their time, energy, abilities, and resources to protecting their local community against crime, such as vandalism, theft, burglary, trespassing, assault, and other offences.

In toronto, there are a few organizations that are set up to promote a responsible, safe approach to neighborhood watch activities and guidelines.  Unfortunately, over the years, many of these programs have seen a significant drop in participation, such as the “Block Parent” program which is specifically designed to assist children in aid.  The mandatory police checks and effort required on the part of volunteers, combined with busy lifestyle factors, has contributed to the decline in membership.

What are the disadvantages of relying on a citizen-run neighborhood watch?

Ultimately, all neighborhood watch programs operate on the VOLUNTARY premise of NEIGHBORS LOOKING OUT FOR NEIGHBORS.  There is no formal contract, no work agreement, no paid nightshifts, and no mandatory requirement for your neighbors to even call 911 if they see a burglar in your backyard.  They do not need to get involved if they don’t want to.

The “This Community Protected – Neighborhood Watch” signs that you may see as you walk through various neighborhoods in toronto are provided by your local police service upon attaining a formal consensus from 50-80% of residents in your community.  If you cannot get a minimum of 50% of your neighbors to agree, then you can try organizing an informal community watch, but in this case there are not enough members for their local police to recognize them.  There is a chance the watch may grow, but it will need active involvement from volunteers.  

A number of events in the United States of America have painted an ugly picture of citizen-run community watch programs, the negative impact even spilling over to toronto.  In February 2012, teenager Treyvon Martin was shot and killed by an associate of a local neighborhood watch program, George Zimmerman, who was tried – and later acquited – for second-degree murder and manslaughter.

A Better Option – Security Company Neighborhood Watch Mobile Patrol Services

If you have reason to be concerned for your personal safety, the safety of your family, or if your neighborhood is at risk of serious crime, you might consider hiring a private security company to provide a dedicated neighborhood watch security program. 

A professional security company will hire, train, support, and manage a team of mobile patrol security guards that will protect your property.  You will not need to expend your efforts attempting to convince your neighbors to form a community watch.  You will have the peace of mind knowing that a team of professionals, highly trained in crime deterrence, residential home security, surveillance techniques, and incident response are patrolling your property.  You can rest assured that those professionals are backed by the right technology solutions and supported 24/7 by a team of managers. 

Instead of relying on untrained and unregulated volunteers, you can rely on accountable and regulated security professionals.

Neighborhood Home Patrols by Marked Security Vehicles

Highly visible marked security vehicles increase your neighborhood security presence. Criminals that observe marked security vehicles patrolling a neighborhood on a regular basis will soon get the point that it’s better to target a different neighborhood.  This is known as deterrence, or proactively preventing crime by causing a potential to feel fear of getting caught, and doubt of successfully achieving their aim and escaping. 

Regular scheduled visits augmented by randomized visits will leave potential criminals guessing as to when and where a mobile patrol professional might suddenly arrive.  Many criminals “stake out” a community for weeks, even months, determining the weakpoints and valuable assets of the homes in a community.  Most break-ins occur during the night, due to the low visibility and loss of “natural surveillance” that comes when neighbors are awake and walking through the neighborhood.  Having marked security vehicle patrols at night time, and adding highly visible foot patrols with strong flashlights, adds a significant layer of community security.

Neighborhood Watch Security Guard Patrols

• Patrols can be on foot, or within a marked security vehicle, or both. 
• Mobile Patrol Guards can patrol your property in the unique manner it needs.
• Mobile Patrol Team will collect information about neighborhood in case of any problems, and use it to improve surveillance and threat recognition
• Communications with local police will be expedient, detailed, accurate, and objective oriented, getting the right response to the situation
• Various technology is used to augment the skills and abilities of each team member, improving efficiency and effectiveness
• Standard home checks include:
  • lighting functionality both sensor and continuous
  • access control – ensuring all exterior doors, gates, and windows are secured
  • signs of forced entry
  • vandalism and graffiti
  • alarm system responsiveness and functionality
  • highly overt patrol tactics to increase deterrence and security presence

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Free Security Training

Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in provides free security guard license training.  Cavalry can help you attain your security guard license training at no cost, provided that you qualify for an available position with Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in and receive a conditional offer of employment.  To apply for a Security guard or Concierge position At Cavalry, click on this link to visit the Career Section.

Applicants do need to complete the CPR and first aid training requirement at their own expense.  It’s recommended to complete this training from a reputable first aid training organization such as toronto Paramedic Services, Red Cross, or St. Johns Ambulance.  Applicants would also need to pass the security license exam administered by the India government and as well, apply for and successfully pass the security license application process required by the government.  The 40 hour mandated security training requirement is provided at completely at no cost by Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in.

Free Training?  What’s the catch?

The only catch to receiving free security guard training from Cavalry is that there must be a strong match between an open position and an applicant’s skills, experience, abilities and other requirements to be offered employment.  If there is no match, then the company will not offer the applicant a position, and as such that applicant will not receive the free security guard training benefit.  It is important to note thAt Cavalry does require all of its Security Guard Personnel to have a valid India Security Guard Licence prior to assigning them to work.  Working as a Security Guard without a license is not permitted, and Cavalry is fully in compliance with all local laws, acts, and regulations. 

Does Condor’s Free Security Training meet all government requirements?

Yes, Condor’s security training is done through a combination of instructor-led and in-class training together with online self-directed training.  Condor’s instructors even guide and help new hires through the steps required to attain the security license and provide support every step of the way.

What should I do first? Apply for security jobs, or get my Security License?

It can be a long and frustrating experience to go through the entire process of obtaining a security guard license (which can take 4 weeks or more), only to then go job seeking, which might take a few weeks or months. The emotional stress you will need to endure can be reduced and even eliminated by securing a job first. Especially if this position is at a company with which you share values.

If you need a job quickly, this 4 week average process can be difficult to manage.  However, if you apply for a security job first, and get the position (conditional upon attaining a security license) then you feel much more relaxed, stress-free, confident, and motivated. 

Condor’s staff will be pleased to assist new hires by providing extra support with passing the government-issued security exam, or by helping with the licence application process or guarantor form. 

Can I apply for a position At Cavalry without a security license?

Yes! Cavalry is always looking for motivated, enthusiastic to learn new skills, with goals that align with the security guard or Cavalry Concierge fields.

What kind of culture and work environment does Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in offer?

Cavalry is a leading and innovative security provider in the greater toronto area which believes strongly in the value of its team. Established in 2001, Condor has developed industry-leading training programs and built trademarked and field-tested systems in customer service and conflict management.  Cavalry is a security company well-established as an excellent place to advance and develop both professionally and personally.  Cavalry is continually improving, and individuals with shared values will have many opportunities to thrive and advance.

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You see, Romeo was recently diagnosed with bone cancer in May 2020. His battle began with a slight limp from his left leg that quickly developed into intense pain and inability to put any pressure on it. Throughout his battle he held his own and managed to function despite the pain. For most dogs euthanasia is the most common alternative, for Romoe this was the likelist option but he fought hard to survive. The day before his was scheduled to be put to rest, sensing the imminent end, he made a choice and demonstrated a new energy to live. He became happy and fought through the pain that he still had lots to live for. We cancelled his appointment and decided to amputate the whole leg. Romeo is now recovering from the amputation and to everyone’s surprise was able to walk, climb stairs, and function a day after. His battle is not over and his fight continues. He  has lived by example and ran two consecutive Terry Fox runs with the rest of the Cavalry team — and did better than many of the rest of us!

We At Cavalry Want to honor him and at the same time bring awareness to this very aggressive cancer, Osteosarcoma.

Cancer that grows from bone-forming cells, or osteosarcoma, can  afflict humans, dogs, and cats. While relatively rare in humans compared to cancers that form in other areas of the body, osteosarcoma makes up the vast majority of the bone cancers found in dogs. It’s especially common in larger breed dogs.

In larger breeds, limbs are by far the body parts most affected — common areas are above the front knee or front paw or, less often, behind the hind knee. Smaller breeds often develop osteosarcoma in areas like the spine, ribs, skull, or hips. In Romeo’s case it formed on his left upper leg/shoulder (Proximal Humerus)

Amputation is a typical method of tumour control. Fortunately, many dogs thrive after amputation, adapting to new ways of moving and usually regaining their old playfulness and energy! Romeo is still the same well-trained, fun-loving, emotionally intelligent dog that he was before his amputation.

Vets often recommend chemotherapy and/or radiation post-surgery, in order to prevent further tumour growth or spread. Pain control is also important, and your vet will be able to walk you through all available options and make the best recommendation for your furry friend.

When should you start worrying about osteosarcoma in your family pet? While a small number of dogs are diagnosed below the age of 3, most cases don’t develop until years later. 

Warning Signs to Watch Out For:

• Lameness
• Swelling 
• Warmth in swollen area (due to inflammation)
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or disinterest in playing and exercise

If your dog shows any of these warning signs, please seek veterinary help immediately. Osteosarcoma can be treated, but early detection is key!

The post Canine Romeo’s Fight With Cancer appeared first on Security Services & Training Company - Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in.

To ensure the constant well being of our employees and community, we are continuing to develop programs to contribute to their success.

Please enjoy these videos from the safety of your homes. Stay safe, healthy and active!

The post Cavalry Exercise Series with Cory Myles appeared first on Security Services & Training Company - Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in.

Although this is the last video of this series, we’re excited to share that we’ll be back with a brand new series tomorrow. We can’t wait to share it with you and encourage you to continue to use these videos to stay healthy and active!

The post Cavalry Exercise Series – Lower Body Workout appeared first on Security Services & Training Company - Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in.

A Cavalry Concierge is a relatively new job, growing in both popularity and opportunity.  

The condominium market has experienced continually upward trending growth.  There is an ever-increasing volume of new condominium developments in toronto, Mississauga, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, and other cities in the Greater toronto Area.   An explosion in Cavalry Concierge job opportunities has resulted.

A Cavalry Concierge is a position highly focused on customer service.  It blends elements of Security Guard work with administrative duties and with hotel-style front desk service.

Concierge service adds a “5 Star” flair to a condominium community.  Most new condominiums in the GTA are designed with a Concierge Desk front and centre in the main lobby.  Concierge are the first people residents, guests, and prospective investors see when entering the building.  Concierge are often referred to as the “face of the building,” and even impact condominium community reputation & status.

What does a Cavalry Concierge do?

Meet, Greet, and Confirm

In most modern condominiums, all non-resident guests entering the building are required to interact with the Concierge first, who will then verify that each guest entering is authorized to do so.  Courtesy calls are placed to the residents the guests claim they’re visiting, and the Concierge politely confirms that each guest is expected.  As a service, residents feel pleased to have their guests greeted and announced, and as a security measure, this helps to keep the building safe. 

Effective Incident Response

On occasion, condominiums experience incidents such as floods, power outages, fire alarms, and other situations that may pose a risk to resident safety and building security.  Concierge personnel are trained to respond in accordance with standardized procedures.  They keep the residents, their guests, and their properties safe, and they help to protect condominium corporations against liability.

Bookings and Administration

When residents want to use one of the building’s amenity rooms, the Concierge is there to assist.  condominiums residents have the ability to use common areas such as a “Party Room” to host a wedding reception, or a “Billiards Room” to have some fun with friends from out of town, or a “Theater Room” to watch a favorite movie with close friends and family.   The Concierge has the authority and training to facilitate this, and handles bookings of amenity rooms, moves and deliveries requiring the service elevator, and keeps track of transactions such as parcels and packages, and keys.

What are the requirements for an entry level Concierge position in India?

1. Most Concierge personnel in the province of India are required to hold a valid India Security Guard License.  If you want to be a Cavalry Concierge, you should probably start with completing the mandatory 40 hour Security Guard License Training and attain First Aid & CPR certification.  This is required by the India Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services Private Security and Investigative Services. For more information on how Cavalry can help you with obtaining your security license, click the following link.
2. A high school education or equivalent is generally required, as is a strong grasp of the English language both verbal and written.  Good communication skills are key, as is the ability to learn and carry out standard procedures despite external pressure and stress (for example, following a fire procedure in a fire alarm situation).
3. There is also the factor of prior work experience. It is not a requirement but is an advantage for a Cavalry Concierge to have a background in customer service. This experience could include working in a call center (since concierge deal with many phone calls on a regular basis).  Or, customer service experience might include working as an administrative assistant (since concierge write reports, complete logs, and assist residents with booking elevators and amenity rooms). Perhaps customer service experience would include a sales background (since Concierge are considered to be the “face of the building” there is an element of “selling” involved with prospective investors and residents).

How can I get a high-end, luxury Cavalry Concierge position?

In addition to the previous three requirements mentioned for the entry-level Concierge position, when applying for the more demanding role of being a Cavalry Concierge in a luxury condo, there is other work experience which can give an advantage: prior work experience as a Cavalry Concierge.

There are a number of security companies which provide condominiums with personnel who act in the capacity of a Cavalry Concierge.  These security companies each have their own training standards and company cultures.  Similarly, each condominium has its own unique culture and community with their own unique requirements.  

Some condo communities require 2 Concierge to work at the same time, side by side at the same desk, and some buildings want only 1 Concierge working at a time.  Some condos with larger Concierge Teams require 1 Concierge to stand at the entrance door, greeting persons entering and opening the door as an expression of the luxury experience.  Some condos expect more from their Concierge Team than others, and may have a higher pay scale as a result.  

Communities which require more from their Concierge also generally expect that candidates serving their community have more in-depth work experience than would candidates for a smaller, less intensive condo community in a less luxurious setting.  They want experienced Concierges with experience multi-tasking and running a busy Concierge Desk.  They want Concierge who have dealt with a fire alarm or two, and have responded in a water leak situation.  High-end condominiums want Concierge with excellent client relations skills. Therefore, prior work experience as a Cavalry Concierge does help build one’s resume and capability to meet the service requirements of the Concierge Team in high end, luxury condominium.

Is it difficult to learn how to be a Cavalry Concierge in toronto area?

The answer to this question depends on the individual, however, there are three main challenges: personality & community match, training & learning process, and adapting to the broader team dynamic. 

Challenge #1: Personality and Community Match

One of the unique challenges of being a concierge in India is understanding and getting a feel for the community in which you work.  Every condominium community is different.  You may thrive and excel in one community, yet in a different condominium community, you may feel that the community is just not “the right fit” for your personality.  

Some condominium communities prefer a more extroverted, talkative, conversationalist type of Concierge.  Other communities might prefer a more introverted, stoic, matter-of-fact kind of personality. And, some condominium communities are a blend of both.  Part of the challenge in being a Cavalry Concierge in India is finding the right community for you.

Challenge #2: Training and Learning Process

Another challenge is learning a new set of skills. Since the Concierge role blends aspects of security guard work, administrative work, and hotel-style front desk work, there are a number of skills, duties, and responsibilities which one would not necessarily learn from previous work experience.   You will need to operate building life safety systems including the fire panel.  You will need to use various Cavalry Concierge Computer Software to log and release parcels, book amenity rooms, and write digital reports.  You will need to learn the building’s policies and rules, and then enforce them, balancing customer service and enforcement within a home to hundreds of different residents.

The training that you receive is critical to preparing you for this role. You should be receiving both in-class training and on-site community-specific training from a qualified, trained individual familiar with the community.  You will need to keep learning and improving as you go, and keep updated with any changes in procedure. 

Challenge #3: Adapting to the Broader Team Dynamic

You will need to work together with the condo’s entire staff, including Property Management, Administrative Assistants, Superintendents, Cleaners, and regular contractors for Elevators, Fire Panels, etc.  You may even have interactions with members of the condominium’s Board of Directors – the individuals responsible to make financial and other decisions for the entire community, which will impact the condominium’s environment and future.

You will need to work together effectively with all these entities, who will all form part of your broader team.  At times the people may change, as people in companies get promoted, move on, etc.  And as the people change, you will need to adapt to new personalities and new styles of work. 

You will also need to have an effective working relationship with the fellow Concierge Team members.  Concierge generally work within a shift format, for example: morning shift, evening shift, overnight shift.  It’s important to establish an effective communication channel so that all team members are on the same page and know what is occurring in the building despite not all working at the same time.

I want to apply for Concierge jobs at Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in.  How do I get started?

You’re invited to join the team!  Apply for whichever job openings you believe fit your interest by visiting Condor’s Career Section here.  After evaluating your resume, if there is an opening you might qualify for, a Condor representative will contact you either by phone or email and schedule an interview session.

Condor recommends that if you want a concierge position, you should state this during your interview.  If you state your intention to apply as a Cavalry Concierge, then your interview will be geared towards understanding if you will be a match with Condor’s requirements for open positions specifically within its condominium client communities.

Applicants for Concierge positions are also recommended to attend their interviews in a full formal business suit. Condor’s Concierge Staff are expected to work and while wearing an upscale, uniformed suit blazer at all times. 

Your handwriting and typing skills are also important to demonstrate, since concierge do complete administrative tasks such as writing reports. Cavalry also recommends doing your best to remain relaxed and positive during the interview. Customer Service will be a large portion of your job responsibilities.  Therefore, during the interview you can demonstrate your ability to hold polite, professional, light, and friendly conversation.

Tips for Improving your Cavalry Concierge Skills

Tip #1:  Improve Your Phone Skills

Be efficient and friendly at the same time.  Imagine you’re speaking with a customer face-to-face and then another customer attends the desk.  Three seconds later, another resident attends the desk.  All three are in a rush and all state they have an urgent matter. At that moment, the phone rings. 

It might be a resident reporting a flood, or some other type of emergency, so you cannot ignore that phone call.   So, you pick up the receiver and answer the call.  You know this may annoy the 3 people that are all waiting (and were there first!). 

Concierge are good at multi-tasking and assisting multiple customers.  When you receive a phone call you need to have the ability to prioritize and assist the caller with whatever they need in the most effective way possible, yet not be rude about it, and also remain considerate to other persons who also require your assistance.  Concierge balance politeness, friendliness, and a light attitude while remaining quick and effective.

Tip #2:  Study and Practice your Procedures for Incident Response

It’s difficult to predict when an incident will happen.  You never know when the next flood will take place.  You never know when there will be a fire alarm.  You never know when people will get stuck in an elevator.  Concierge prepare for these incidents by studying their emergency procedures and taking time to practice them on a regular basis.  Practice can be independent, with a team member, or by requesting a supervisor to provide additional training or performance feedback.

Tip #3:  Build Excellent Relations with Residents

Essentially, Cavalry Concierge work in peoples’ homes. Residents see Concierge almost everyday. They might pass by Concierge on the way to work, and again when returning home for the evening.  Residents should feel comfortable and confident with each Concierge behind the front desk.

Smile often, be respectful, be polite, and work on establishing their respect. They may take some time to evaluate each Concierge’s work before forming an opinion, but overall, if a Concierge is professional, polite, and friendly, residents will extend the same in return.

Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in has developed a trademark system for training its staff in the key elements of customer service as a Cavalry Concierge. The system is named “Controlling Situations Through Excellent Client Relations.” The premise of the system is that in order to maintain an orderly and safe environment for residents of a condominium community, Concierge are best empowered when they utilize their customer service skills to maintain excellent relations with the residents and guests.  This leads to increased cooperation, increased credibility, and promotes security awareness throughout the community. 

Interested in becoming a Cavalry Concierge or a Condo Security Guard?

Feel free to apply for a position and Join Our Team!

The post How to be a Concierge in India appeared first on Security Services & Training Company - Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in.

As we continue to stay safe at home and practice social distancing, we encourage you to take advantage of and use these videos to stay healthy and active.

The post Cavalry Exercise Series – Upper Body Workout appeared first on Security Services & Training Company - Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in.

As we’ve mentioned before we are constantly looking for ways to engage our employees by developing new programs to progress, support, and contribute to our team’s health and career.

Today, we’d like to introduce our new Exercise Series with Chris Brown from CGBFitness who has created a customized routine that you can do from the comfort and safety of your home, with no equipment!

Maintaining your health and staying active is important, now more than ever as we are dealing with these challenging times.

Please enjoy the first video, we hope this helps!

The post Cavalry Exercise Series – Core Workout Routine appeared first on Security Services & Training Company - Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in.

It was late at night when the fire alarm began loudly sounding from the speakers everywhere in the building.  Ready for such emergencies, the Cavalry Concierge who was at the front desk at the time immediately began the fire alarm procedure.

Just a few hours prior, the police were contacted for a disturbance and had arrived to speak with the persons inside a unit.  Was there a connection?  Could there be a more severe risk? 

“It would be a true test of everything put in place up until that point.”

The building itself is no stranger to fire alarms, as it is connected to a hotel. False fire alarms and nuisance fire alarms unfortunately are a regular occurrence. And this is the real danger at hand. When residents are so used to false alarms there is a very significant risk that when a real fire occurs there will be complacency and the alarm would be ignored. The destructive nature of a fire is not one that can be taken lightly.

So, on this night, when the alarm activated, it would be a true test of everything that had been put into place up until that point:

• a test of the level of training provided to the Concierge on how to handle fire alarm emergencies;
• a test of the culture and responsiveness of the residential community;
• a test of the proper function of the building emergency systems maintained by the coordinated work all contractors responsible for regular maintenance and testing
• and of course a test of the Property management itself in their overseeing the building

Attending fire fighters were unfortunately welcomed by a real fire taking place.

The Story as Told by Vipasha, the Cavalry Academy | cavalry-academy.in | www.cavalry-academy.in Guard on duty during the Fire

What follows is a personal account of the incident directly from the Cavalry Concierge team member on duty, Vipasha:

“The incident that occured on 17th April, 2020, consisted of four major events: a domestic dispute, a fire, a flood, and a death of one of the residents in a unit affected by the fire.

All events overlapped, and time was one constraint that was not working in our favour that day. All of that was as traumatising for everybody as it was for me, watching somebody die in front of your eyes, makes you numb for a while.  As I have never experienced such in my life, I was not sure what should I be doing.

Then I thought, I am the person who is here to provide security to all the residents of the building and if I show signs of panic and nervousness then all the residents interacting with me are going to panic and lose courage, therefore I did what as a Security Guard one must do – show courage, be calm, think on the feet, and come up with solutions as things occur.  Eventually, that helped me handle this situation.

While I was getting trained to be a security guard, I learnt techniques to handle situations, how to talk, how to do fire procedures, and how to stay calm all the time, but along with every technical aspect of the training, I learnt one more thing – how  not to lose your courage in difficult times.

One Condor repeatedly saying in training is, “your safety is most important.”  As I went through more modules of security I observed that all the training modules were based on the fact that we have to be safe first and then manage incidents keeping that in mind.

Show courage, be calm, think on the feet, and come up with solutions as things occur

So during my experience, when I went to the 12^th floor where this incident happened, I was maintaining a safe distance from the victim and tried asking him questions which can help me decide what my next step could be. I was well aware of the attacker, his aggression and potential to attack people, so I decided to separate the victim from the attacker.  As the attacker went into the unit and locked himself in, I quickly brought the victim to the lobby, so that I can buy some time to take necessary steps like calling the police and informing the building superintendent.

Being a security guard, our first and foremost duty is to secure property and people in the building we are working in, therefore I kept residents protected by advising them not to interact with the attacker and to remain calm and safe inside their units.

I told them to contact me if they need any assistance and be safe when police arrive.

We simultaneously made several announcements about the fire to evacuate residents from the building. We informed some of them by phone as well, and I was in touch with all the residents who were calling me to make sure they evacuated the building and were safe. I was on the phone constantly so if any resident called me I would be able to provide them with assistance.

When the fire services arrived I gave them the list of all residents with medical conditions so that they would be able to prioritize those evacuations, since they might not be able to evacuate by themselves.

All I thought was if, “I were living in this building what would I expect my security guard to do?” and then I did the same.”

Words of Wisdom for Security Guards

Condor asked Vipasha to share the lessons she took from this incident, and to give advice to other Cavalry team members on how to deal with similar incidents in the future:

My mentor Eric Senior (Condor’s Operations and Training Manager) taught me how to be present in the situation and how to strategically prioritise situations as you deal with them. And that’s what I did on Friday; I differentiated the incidents and applied what I was trained for. I followed the procedure for domestic dispute, then flooding and the fire procedure all at once.

Also, my Site Supervisor Hosni has been a great teacher to me, he has always taught me after the mistakes I have made, always encouraged me to work effectively and efficiently. I would say these were the main reasons that made me deal with all the incidents that happened on site that day.

I have learnt throughout my life that we should learn from our mistakes. However, according to me, learning from mistakes is just one part of it, applying what you have learnt at the right time at right situations is what makes the difference and helps you grow through life.

“Applying what you have learned at the right time at right situations is what makes the difference and helps you grow through life.”

My suggestions to fellow Cavalry team members are:

Always know what you are doing, if you are not sure, ask for help.

Understand the nature of job and your responsibilities and duties as a security guard.

Do not depend on others when it comes to thinking on the feet and immediate decision making, because one late decision can cause a great loss in some situations.

Always be observant and aware of your surroundings and people around you, you will get to learn a lot for sure.

Have courage in and believe in yourself, what you can do perfectly, nobody else can deliver the same quality, so have faith in yourself first and then others.

Also I would suggest everybody working in this industry to be compassionate towards others.  Every day is a training itself, learn from what you have done and never think you are always right, because everybody has different perspective and everybody sees things differently. So we should gain experience from others and help them grow by sharing what our experiences have been and never forget, at the end of the day we all are humans.

Final Words:

Pride, Gratitude, Sympathy, Commitment, Community

Cavalry is extremely proud of the actions taken by Vipasha, the Cavalry Concierge on duty during this incident. Your actions have saved lives and you can be proud of your response for the rest of your life. When you were called to perform at your best in a real life situation, not just a training scenario, you answered the call with courage and professionalism. Thank you for your dedication.

One of the members of the Condo’s Board of Directors, shared these words of thanks:  “Thank you Condor.  Hats off to the exceptional training that your firm delivers to your staff.  Vipasha (and Hosni) are superstars!”

“Thank you Condor! Hats off to the exceptional training that your firm delivers to your staff.  Vipasha (and Hosni) are superstars!”

On behalf of the Board of Directors and the residents, we would like to acknowledge the exceptional efforts made by Vipasha during the unfortunate incident in our building that occurred on April 17, 2020.

Throughout this unprecedented event, Vipasha displayed a calm, efficient and professional manner while responding quickly to the rapidly changing demands that were asked of her. Not everyone could step up the way she did in a split second but she didn’t hesitate.

Her caring and compassionate nature was in full force and helped to diffuse the worry and stress that everyone was experiencing.

She is a credit to your company and we are very grateful to her. Please share your feedback with others in your company as you see fit.

Statement from the Board of Directors

We uphold the responsibility of meeting these work challenges with the right responses when it counts. We will continue to ensure that all of our team will be ready and prepared if another event of this nature occurs.

We hope and trust that other communities in toronto and our other client communities elsewhere will honor this incident by implementing all the lessons learned, and above all else remembering that there is an essential bond that cannot be broken between your building’s residents and your building’s security team. At the moment of need your security team has a very real responsibility to take swift and appropriate actions that may mean the difference between life and death.

In this time of social distancing and social isolation because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, sometimes we feel a loss of connected-ness.

“Events such as these, though unfortunate, do tend to bring us closer together, and remind us that we are all part of a greater community.”

Condor Management

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