Book excerpt: Private Security: An Introduction to Principles and Practice, Second Edition explains foundational security principles—defining terms and outlining the increasing scope of security in daily life—while reflecting current practices of private security as an industry and profession. The book looks at the development and history of the industry, outlines fundamental security principles, and the growing dynamic and overlap that exists between the private sector security and public safety and law enforcement—especially since the events of 9/11. Chapters focus on current practice, reflecting the technology-driven, fast-paced, global security environment. Such topics covered include security law and legal issues, risk management, physical security, human resources and personnel considerations, investigations, institutional and industry-specific security, crisis and emergency planning, computer, and information security. A running theme of this edition is highlighting—where appropriate—how security awareness, features, and applications have permeated all aspects of our modern lives. Key Features: Provides current best practices detailing the skills that professionals, in the diverse and expanding range of career options, need to succeed in the field Outlines the unique role of private sector security companies as compared to federal and state law enforcement responsibilities Includes key terms, learning objectives, end of chapter questions, Web exercises, and numerous references—throughout the book—to enhance student learning Critical infrastructure protection and terrorism concepts, increasingly of interest and relevant to the private sector, are referenced throughout the book. Threat assessment and information sharing partnerships between private security entities public sector authorities—at the state and federal levels—are highlighted. Private Security, Second Edition takes a fresh, practical approach to the private security industry’s role and impact in a dynamic, ever-changing threat landscape.