When Seconds Count: The Case for Emergency Training in Private Security
An injectable naloxone kit.
It was not an ambulance that arrived first. When two people collapsed from suspected overdoses outside Winnipeg’s Health Sciences Centre, it was hospital security guard Derrick Donovan who responded. A licensed paramedic, Donovan administered naloxone and performed CPR. Both individuals survived.
What made this even more remarkable is that it happened during the first week that the HSC security team was approved to carry naloxone. The program worked exactly as intended.
Donovan’s actions have reignited a national conversation. What role should security guards play in emergency response? More importantly, are they being trained to save lives?
A Powerful First Save That Changed Everything
“One of the individuals we saved said ‘thank you,’ and even the paramedics were surprised it was our first time using it. They told us it was really well done.” — Derrick Donovan, HSC Security and Licensed Paramedic
That moment shifted how Donovan and the entire security department viewed their responsibilities. The experience led to an overwhelming sense of purpose. Nearly every officer on site now carries naloxone, not only while on duty but also in their personal lives. The program, funded by the HSC Foundation, has become a source of pride for the department.
For Donovan, this was not just a moment. It was the beginning of a mission.
Harm Reduction Is Everyone’s Responsibility
Donovan’s path, from infantry soldier to paramedic to security leader, shaped his commitment to public service. He is currently studying psychiatric nursing with a focus on harm reduction. His work with vulnerable youth in addiction stabilization units opened his eyes to how empathy, action, and preparedness can save lives and change futures.
“Whether you are in housekeeping, a nurse, or a security officer, you have a role to play. Harm reduction is truly everyone’s responsibility.” — Derrick Donovan, HSC Security and Licensed Paramedic
Harm reduction strategies extend beyond reversing overdoses. They help build trust, reduce stigma, and improve public health outcomes. Security professionals are uniquely positioned to contribute in these ways, but only if they are given the knowledge and tools to respond.
Evidence in Action
Donovan’s efforts did not stop at that first response. He went on to design and lead a full naloxone training program for the entire HSC security team. Since then, naloxone has been used by HSC security over 80 times — including four instances in a single week. The results speak for themselves.
“We have proven it works. We have saved so many lives. There is no reason for this not to be a new standard.” — Derrick Donovan, HSC Security and Licensed Paramedic
He is now calling on the Manitoba government to fund similar programs in hospitals across the province. With the framework already in place, every hospital security team could be trained quickly and effectively.
This is not about replacing medical professionals. It is about filling the gap during those critical first moments.
Meeting the Moment: Why Clients Want Emergency-Ready Guards
Security is no longer just about being visible. It is about being ready. As organizations across healthcare, residential, and commercial sectors respond to the realities of opioid use and public safety risks, they are asking a new question: can security teams do more than observe?
At Regal Security, we believe the answer is yes. So do many of our clients.
“Clients today are looking for more than a security presence. They want peace of mind that someone is trained and ready to respond in an emergency. Expanding emergency response capabilities, like naloxone training, is not just the right thing to do - it’s what the future of security looks like.” — Paul Carson, Vice President of Commercial Development, Regal Security Inc.
From hospitals to high-rise communities, clients increasingly expect their security providers to be capable, confident, and responsive. Training security guards for emergency situations is not only good practice. It is a competitive advantage.
Our Guards Are Already Responding
At Regal Security, we are not speaking in hypotheticals. Our guards face these situations regularly.
In November, Regal team member Mirza N. Baig responded to a tenant experiencing a sudden medical emergency. He quickly performed chest compressions while following 911 instructions, helping stabilize the individual until paramedics arrived.
That same week, he stepped up again during a city-wide power outage. Without hesitation, he conducted fire watches across four high-rise buildings, providing safety and peace of mind to residents in the dark.
These moments are not exceptions. They are examples of the expectations today’s security professionals are facing.
“Security guards are often the first ones there. They arrive before the paramedics, before the fire trucks, before the media. They are not just observing. They are acting. And they need the training to match that responsibility. It is time we equip them accordingly.” — Nick Vetere, CEO, Regal Security Inc.
Security Has Evolved. Now Our Policies Must Catch Up
The observe and report model no longer meets the demands of our communities. In places like hospitals, transit hubs, and residential buildings, security teams are now expected to respond, not retreat.
At Regal Security, our guiding principles—Your Peace of Mind™, Strength & Honor™, and Everyday Superheroes™—reflect our belief that security professionals are more than just a presence. They are protectors, responders, and leaders.
That is why we support:
Expanded access to naloxone kits for security personnel
Ongoing investment in CPR, first aid, and mental health response training
Clear and supportive policies that empower guards to take action in emergency situations
Emergency Readiness Is Not Optional. It Is Essential
Donovan’s story is more than an inspiring headline. It is a blueprint. It shows us that with training and trust, security professionals can deliver real impact. Our own team members, like Mirza Baig, prove that readiness is already part of our culture.
Now it is time for the rest of the industry to rise to the moment.
“When security guards have the training and the tools, they do not just observe. They save lives. That is the future of our industry and it starts now.” — Gary Del Bianco, Executive Vice President, Regal Security Inc.
Security guards are already the first to arrive. Let us make sure they are prepared.
Want to learn how trained security professionals can protect your people and property?
Contact Regal Security today to find out how we can tailor a safety-first approach for your facility.
