Smell Is a Dog’s Primary Data Stream

It’s not that dogs have a “better” nose. Their system is built to gather more scent information and process it quickly.

• More receptors to capture more signals. Dogs are estimated to have more than 100 million scent receptors in the nasal cavity compared to about 6 million in people.

• More surface area to read the air. Dogs have 17 times more smell-detecting tissue than humans.

• More brainpower devoted to odor. The area in a canine’s brain used to analyze scent is about 40 times larger than the comparable area in humans.

Some estimates show dogs can detect smells anywhere from 1,000 to 10,000 times more accurately than people. And dogs sample scent actively. Research that models canine sniffing often uses rates of several sniffs per second, helping the dog constantly refresh its palette.
 

Why This Matters in Cargo, Freight, and Commercial Spaces

Real environments are messy. Cargo and freight spaces carry overlapping odors: cardboard, plastics, fuel, lubricants, cleaning products, food, perfumes, and constant airflow from doors and vehicles. Buildings and venues add their own mix—lobbies, elevators, mailrooms, loading areas, open-air spaces, and corridors where scents travel in unpredictable ways.

This is where the pasta sauce analogy becomes practical. A well-trained detection dog can work through layers. The aim is not for the dog to react to a strong smell—but to recognize a specific odor signature the scent layers.

That capability can support security needs such as:

• Cargo and freight: screening pallets, containers, and staging areas where items move quickly and storage conditions change

• Vehicles and loading docks: checking entry points where goods and people share the same flow paths

• Commercial spaces: supporting security programs in lobbies, mail and package areas, and other high-traffic zones

The dog is never working alone. A canine security team is a partnership in which the dog reads the environment, and the handler reads the dog. The handler watches for changes in the dog’s behavior that may indicate a credible alert, then follows established site procedures to report concerns and help coordinate next steps.

Training Keeps the Nose Useful

Scent detection is based on repetition, clarity, and consistency.

Canine programs build a dog’s “odor library,” teaching the dog to distinguish relevant odors from background scent. Over time, that library expands as the world changes. As threat profiles evolve, training programs adapt by introducing new target odors in controlled conditions while keeping the safety of the dog and handler at the center of the work.

Scale matters, too. Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services operates the largest private-sector canine security program, with over 1,000 teams assigned globally. That reach supports consistent standards across regions and helps clients integrate canine screening into broader security planning, whether the setting is a distribution operation or a multi-tenant commercial building.

Canine detection is applied biology paired with training discipline, used in places where speed, mobility, and adaptability matter.

In the end, the value comes back to that kitchen moment. Humans smell the sauce. Dogs smell what the sauce is made of. In cargo, freight, and commercial environments—where odors overlap and stakes are high—that difference can help support safer operations and help reduce risk, one careful sniff at a time.

About Michael Wynn: Michael Wynn is a retired Connecticut State Trooper who was a Master Trainer and lead instructor for the Connecticut State Police canine program. He has over 35 years of experience training police work dogs and is certified by the New England State Police Accreditation Committee. While working with the Connecticut State Police, he led a task force commissioned by the Department of State to create an EDC Anti-Terrorism Assistance Program to protect at-risk State Department locations worldwide.  He is certified as an expert witness in both State and Federal court on matters relating to police work dogs.  He is one of the foremost authorities on police working dogs and has spoken on behalf of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the United States Police Canine Association on many occasions. He previously served on the Department of Homeland Security’s advisory panel for the Explosives Standards Working Group. This panel is drafting a set of national standards for bomb dog training and operations. He is a member of the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators.

Civil unrest continues to be a growing concern for organizations across industries. From peaceful demonstrations that escalate unexpectedly to riots, vandalism, and targeted acts of violence, unrest can disrupt operations with little warning. Political polarization, economic pressure, labor disputes, and social movements all contribute to an environment where businesses must be prepared for disruption, not surprised by it.

Effective civil unrest security planning is no longer optional. It is a core component of business resilience, continuity, and duty of care. 

Why Civil Unrest Poses a Real Business Risk

Civil unrest can affect organizations of any size, from local storefronts to global enterprises. The impact often goes beyond physical damage and can include:

●    Property damage and theft

●    Employee safety concerns

●    Supply chain interruptions

●    Temporary or prolonged facility closures

●    Revenue loss and reputational risk

In more severe cases, a lack of preparation can result in long term operational setbacks or force difficult decisions about relocation, staffing, or service availability.
 

A Proactive Approach to Civil Unrest Security Planning

Organizations that manage risk effectively take a forward looking approach rather than reacting in the moment. Civil unrest security planning should be integrated into broader risk management and resilience strategies.
 

Key components include:
 

Conduct a Comprehensive Risk Assessment

Start by identifying potential drivers of unrest that could affect your locations, workforce, or operations. This includes evaluating geographic exposure, proximity to high traffic or symbolic areas, past incident patterns, and emerging social or political tensions. A structured risk assessment helps prioritize resources and informs decision making before an incident occurs.
 

Develop a Clear Contingency and Response Plan

A well defined response plan outlines what actions to take before, during, and after unrest. This may include access control procedures, temporary shutdown protocols, employee safety guidance, evacuation routes, and coordination with local authorities. Plans should be flexible enough to adapt as situations evolve.
 

Strengthen Communication Channels

Clear communication is essential during periods of uncertainty. Employees, customers, and partners should know how to receive updates, where to go for guidance, and what actions are expected of them. Consistent messaging helps reduce confusion, supports safety, and maintains trust.
 

Secure Facilities and Assets

Physical security measures play a critical role in civil unrest security planning. This may include enhanced perimeter protection, monitored surveillance, controlled entry points, and visible security presence. These measures help deter opportunistic threats and provide greater situational awareness.
 

Protect Data and Critical Systems

Operational disruptions often extend beyond physical spaces. Organizations should plan for secure access to systems, data backups, and continuity of critical functions if facilities become temporarily inaccessible. Cyber and physical security planning should work together, not in isolation.
 

Stay Informed and Monitor Developments

Timely intelligence allows organizations to adjust posture before conditions escalate. Monitoring credible news sources, local alerts, and intelligence feeds helps leaders make informed decisions and shift resources proactively.
 

Turning Preparation Into Resilience

Civil unrest cannot always be prevented, but its impact can be managed. Organizations that invest in civil unrest security planning are better positioned to help protect their people, limit disruption, and recover faster when incidents occur. Preparation builds confidence across leadership teams and helps maintain stability during unpredictable moments.
 

How Allied Universal Can Help

Allied Universal specializes in helping organizations strengthen readiness through a comprehensive, risk based approach to security and resilience. Our integrated solutions help identify vulnerabilities, align people and technology, and support organizations in building plans that adapt to real world conditions.

By combining intelligence, security professionals, and strategic planning, we help organizations move from reactive response to sustained preparedness. When it comes to mitigating these situations, it’s crucial that you choose the right security provider.

Contact us to learn more about how we help organizations strengthen civil unrest security planning and build long term resilience. 

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Families trust schools to provide an environment where students can focus on learning without unnecessary risk or disruption. Whether it is the first day of school, a return from winter break, or the middle of a busy semester, safety must remain consistent, intentional, and visible.
 

Strong school safety programs are not built on one solution or one policy. They are built through planning, awareness, communication, and partnership. These K-12 school safety tips are designed to help school administrators and leadership teams strengthen preparedness, improve response capabilities, and build a culture where safety is understood and shared across the entire campus.
 

Know Your Environment Through Risk Assessment

Effective school safety starts with knowing your campus. Every school has its own layout, traffic patterns, and community dynamics that shape risk. A thorough risk assessment allows leadership teams to move from assumptions to informed decisions.

This includes reviewing:

●    Physical vulnerabilities such as unsecured doors, isolated hallways, or blind spots

●    Student movement during arrival, dismissal, and class transitions

●    Community activity around the campus

●    Past incidents or near misses
 

Risk assessments should be ongoing, not one-time events. As campuses grow, change, and adopt new programs, risks evolve as well. Regular assessments help schools prioritize investments, strengthen weak points, and stay proactive rather than reactive.ve.

Design Thoughtful Access and Entry Controls

Knowing who is on campus and why is a cornerstone of school safety. Access control is about structure, not restriction. It allows schools to create a predictable environment where activity is easier to monitor and manage.

Strong access practices include:

●    Limiting open entry points during school hours

●    Using visitor check-in systems with visible identification

●    Positioning trained staff or security professionals at main entrances

●    Establishing procedures for deliveries and contractors

When access control is implemented thoughtfully, it helps protect students and staff while maintaining a welcoming school atmosphere.

Maintain Strong Facility Awareness and Surveillance

Situational awareness depends on both people and technology. Cameras, monitoring systems, and access tools provide visibility, but awareness is strengthened when staff understand what normal activity looks like and recognize when something feels out of place.

Schools should focus on:

●    Strategic camera placement in high-traffic and sensitive areas

●    Clear lines of sight in hallways and common spaces

●    Staff presence during peak movement times

●    Regular review of monitoring procedures

The goal is early detection. The sooner unusual activity is noticed, the more options a school has to respond calmly and effectively.

Train Staff and Students on Safety Protocols

Safety plans are only effective if people understand them. Training gives staff and students confidence to take action when needed.

Training should include:

●    Emergency procedures for different types of incidents

●    How to report concerns or suspicious behavior

●    How to respond to lockdowns, evacuations, and shelter-in-place orders

●    Age-appropriate guidance for students

When training is clear and consistent, it reduces hesitation, confusion, and panic during real situations.

Build Strong Communication Channels

Communication is one of the most powerful tools in school safety. Clear, timely information builds trust and helps maintain order during uncertainty.

Strong communication systems include:

●    Rapid alert tools for staff, students, and families

●    Defined roles for who communicates during emergencies

●    Consistent messaging about safety expectations

●    Post-incident updates that provide clarity and reassurance

Schools that communicate well create confidence and stability even in high-stress moments.

Plan for Both Safety and Well-Being

Safety is not only physical. Emotional and social well-being are deeply connected to campus security. Many risks begin as behavioral or social concerns long before they become incidents.

Schools should integrate:

●    Counseling and mental health resources

●    Behavioral intervention teams

●    Programs that encourage belonging and inclusion

●    Early reporting systems for concerns

Supporting well-being reduces escalation and strengthens overall campus stability.

Engage Students, Staff, and Families in Safety Culture

Safety is strongest when it is shared. When students, staff, and families feel ownership of safety, awareness increases and response improves.

Engagement can include:

●    Student safety ambassadors or leadership programs

●    Staff participation in planning and review sessions

●    Family education on safety procedures and communication systems

This collaboration builds trust and reinforces that safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Establish Clear Emergency Response Plans

Every campus should have documented procedures for a wide range of scenarios. 

These plans should define:

●    Lockdown, evacuation, and shelter processes

●    Reunification procedures

●    Leadership roles during emergencies

●    Coordination with first responders

Plans must be accessible, practical, and easy to follow. Complexity creates confusion, while clarity supports action.

Practice Regular Drills and Exercises

Drill exercises help take plans and make them muscle memory. They reveal gaps, strengthen coordination, and help people feel prepared rather than fearful.

Effective drills:

●    Are communicated clearly ahead of time

●    Include debriefs afterward

●    Are adjusted based on age and setting

●    Improve realism without creating stress

Drills should always support learning and confidence.

Review and Evolve Your Safety Strategy

School safety is not static. Threats change. Technology advances. Campus needs evolve.

Leadership teams should regularly:

●    Review safety incidents and feedback

●    Update emergency plans

●    Evaluate technology and staffing needs

●    Refresh training programs

Continuous improvement keeps safety programs relevant and effective.
 

Why These K-12 School Safety Tips Matter

School safety is not about checking boxes. It is about creating environments where students feel supported, staff feel prepared, and families feel confident.

Strong safety programs help protect more than buildings. They support learning, relationships, and trust. When leadership takes a proactive, thoughtful approach to safety, campuses become places where education and security work together, not in tension.

These K-12 school safety tips provide a framework for schools to build programs that are practical, human-centered, and ready to adapt to whatever challenges the future brings.
 

How Allied Universal Supports K-12 School Safety
 

Allied Universal partners with schools to help protect students, staff, and campuses through a combination of people, planning, and technology. We support schools in strengthening their safety programs by helping assess risk, improve access practices, enhance situational awareness, and refine emergency response planning.

Our approach focuses on collaboration, preparedness, and communication, helping schools build safety programs that are consistent, adaptable, and aligned with their unique environments.
 

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At one of the busiest air logistics hubs in the Midwest, even the night shift moves fast. Aircraft move in and out, tugs pull cargo containers across vast ramps, and millions of packages flow through illuminated conveyor belts. In the middle of this nonstop motion, handler Katie Crews and her explosive detection partner, K9 Duke, work with a silent, steady purpose. Together, they support one of Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services’ most demanding aviation deployments, bringing precision, focus, and consistency to a complex operational environment. 

For Duke, a black lab and seasoned detection canine, everything begins the moment Katie puts on her uniform. “He knows it’s go time,” Katie says. “He locks in with me right away. Once we step on site, he’s all business.” 

A Path Built on Service 

Katie’s path to the detection canine field was shaped by years of service. Before joining Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services, she spent four years as a police officer and 10 years with the Kentucky National Guard. Service, movement, and meaningful work have always defined her career. 

“I’ve always been drawn to roles with a mission behind them,” she says. “I’m not someone who can sit behind a desk. I want to be active, engaged, and doing something that matters.” 

When she transitioned out of law enforcement, working with a detection canine offered the right mix of mission, mobility, and responsibility — and she embraced it wholeheartedly with the encouragement of her family. 

Fuschia and Duke: A Bond Shaped by Loyalty

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Katie’s story with Enhanced Protection Services began before Duke entered the picture. Her first explosives detection canine was Fuschia, a black lab whose loyalty and steady work ethic made a lasting impact. Katie and Fuschia worked together for more than a year before Fuschia was diagnosed with cancer — news that was incredibly difficult for Katie, given the bond they had built through long nights, training, and shared purpose. 

With guidance from the canine management team, Katie supported Fuschia through retirement and helped her transition into life at home by her side where she continues to enjoy her days. 

As Katie prepared to begin a new chapter in her handler journey, she returned to the Enhanced Protection Services training center, where she was paired with her next partner, Duke. From the start, the two shared an easy rhythm — Duke’s drive matched Katie’s pace, and his confidence in the field made him a natural fit for the demands of aviation screening. 

Their bond strengthened quickly. “He’s got such a good heart,” Katie says. “He wants to work, he wants to be with me, and he gives everything he has every single night. Once we connected, that was it — we were in this together.” 

Precision in a High-Tempo Aviation Environment 

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Working in a large, dynamic air cargo operation brings a slew of challenges. The environment is massive, loud, and always in motion. Between aircraft movements, ground support equipment, belts powering up and down, and Unit Load Devices (ULDs) filled with thousands of packages, detection teams must remain focused and adaptable. 

“We screen a huge amount of cargo,” Katie explains. “Between the planes, the tugs, and the volume, it’s a fast-paced environment. Good communication is everything. Everyone works together because the mission depends on it.” 

Every night, Katie and Duke screen ULDs that contain international shipments, supporting aviation safety and cargo integrity. Duke’s steady focus makes him a natural fit for the environment. “He thrives in structure,” she says. “He tunes out distractions and stays locked in. That’s what makes him such a strong working partner.” 

Training, Readiness, and the Power of Instinct 

Training is at the core of every detection canine’s success. Enhanced Protection Services emphasizes practice, consistency, and preparedness. In addition to monthly and quarterly testing, Katie and Duke complete daily training exercises. 

Like all EPS handlers, Katie discreetly hides a training aid in the environment and instructs Duke to “seek” until he locates the source of the odor. This not only keeps Duke’s nose in tune, but it gives Katie a meaningful opportunity to read subtle changes in his behavior, strengthening their working bond. 

“Daily training keeps the dogs sharp, and it keeps us sharp as handlers too,” Katie says. “You’re only as good as your tool, and when your dog is squared away, you will be too.” 

A Moment That Made an Impact

One of Katie’s proudest moments came during a high-visibility evaluation where Duke was asked to perform in an unfamiliar environment under close observation. Despite the pressure, he worked the area with total confidence and precision. 

"He worked that site like he’d been there for years,” Katie says. “Seeing him shine like that made me incredibly proud. He represented all of us.” 

Off-Duty Moments 

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Off the clock, Duke’s demeanor shifts completely. The focused, all-business detection canine becomes relaxed, affectionate, and full of personality. 

Like all Enhanced Protection Services’ working canines, Duke lives at home with his handler, along with retired K9 Fuschia and Izzy, Katie’s pet Schnauzer. “Duke fits right in,” Katie says. 

“He’s the sweetest pup. When we’re home, he flips the switch and he’s just part of the family. He loves being with our other dogs and relaxing after a long night.” 

Serving with Purpose 

For Katie, detection work is more than just a job — it’s a continuation of the commitment to service that has defined her path. Every night, she and Duke help support the safety of aircraft and people far beyond the perimeter of the cargo hub. 

“I came here to serve the community, and in this role I’m still doing that — just in a different way,” she says. “If we can prevent something from getting onto a plane, we’re protecting a lot of people. That gives me a real sense of purpose.” 

Through every shift, Katie and Duke bring discipline, partnership, and precision to a mission that depends on all three.

That was the reality many people New York faced in 2025, and it forced companies to confront a hard truth. “It will never happen here” is not a strategy. It’s a blind spot.
 

In their conversation, Rachelle Loyear and Glen Kucera break down what chief security officers and their teams are navigating around the world. Early on, Kucera calls out a mindset that still lingers in many organizations. “Everybody thinks they have no vulnerabilities. They get comfortable with that.” His follow up line sets the tone for everything that comes after. “The day before, they thought it would never happen to them.”
 

From there the discussion widens to what evolving threats actually mean for modern security programs. Threats move fast, so responses must move fast, too. Kucera talks about how roles like hostile surveillance specialists and K9 teams can interrupt an attacker’s focus and buy precious seconds for people to react. “Anything that can deter them or break their train of thought and buy seconds may save the victims.”
 

Loyear brings in an equally important angle. Employees feel more confident when they see their company actively monitoring threats and providing real training. It’s not just protocols on a page. It’s the sense that someone is paying attention and preparing them for what could happen.
The 2025 World Security Report underscores that responsibility even more. Investors believe that about 30% of a company’s value is tied to key executives. Kucera explains why that matters. “There's usually a key executive that maintains the intellectual property of that company… there's an executive that has all the client relationships. There's an executive that builds the culture of the company. And the employees are there because of certain key executives and the mission and what they represent. So, when you take one of them out of the equation, it's tough to measure the full financial impact.”
 

The report also highlights digital risk. Loyear notes that 75% of companies have dealt with misinformation or disinformation, and Kucera adds that growing online hostility has created new challenges for intel teams that now track threats across the open and dark webs.
 

Their discussion circles back to one of the biggest advantages a company can have. Integration. Kucera points out that when teams operate with “one culture and one hiring practice” everything runs smoother and communication becomes clearer. Fewer gaps. Fewer surprises.
They close with the same takeaway. The World Security Report gives CSOs a reality check on what is happening globally and a benchmark for their own programs. As Loyear notes, reviewing plans and practicing them regularly is what exposes gaps before a real incident does.
 

The bottom line: threats are evolving, but companies have more tools and information than ever. Staying ready means staying proactive and treating security as a living part of your business, not something you set and forget.
 

Explosives and hazardous devices remain among the most unpredictable and critical risks facing security teams today. In 2024 alone, the U.S. Bomb Data Center logged 353 bombing incidents nationwide — a 10% jump over the prior year. Suspicious packages, deliveries left in executive offices, or unattended bags at public venues can endanger lives, force evacuations, disrupt operations, and tarnish reputations in minutes.

X-ray screening is essential— but it is only the beginning. Spotting an anomaly doesn’t resolve the risk; the real challenge is rapid, accurate resolution. Distinguishing a false alarm from a genuine threat is what keeps people safe and operations running smoothly.  

As adversaries continually refine their tradecraft, organizations must regularly evaluate their screening programs. Here are four areas that can make the difference between disruption and resilience.

1. Speed of Resolution

When a suspicious package or delivery arrives, the clock starts ticking. Screeners scan for red flags such as missing or excessive postage, leaks or stains, unusual odors, protruding wires, or absent return addresses. Spotting anomalies is just step one.  

The real test of a program’s effectiveness is how quickly a team moves from suspicion to resolution. Every minute of uncertainty increases risk — heightening anxiety, disrupting operations, and potentially compounding danger if a true threat is present. Be sure to consider:

• Is there a clearly defined process for escalating flagged items?
• How quickly is qualified expertise available to validate or dismiss suspicious items?
• Could uncertainty trigger unnecessary evacuations that disrupt operations and brand reputation?

2. Expertise to Support the Front Line

Technology alone cannot resolve threats. Qualified expertise is what turns screening into security. Organizations should evaluate who is supporting their screeners and how quickly expertise can be engaged.

Certified bomb technicians represent the gold standard in this area of security. Every U.S. Law Enforcement bomb technician  completes rigorous training at the FBI’s Hazardous Devices School (HDS), the sole national training pipeline. This single-schoolhouse model ensures a consistent foundation of skills, language, and methodology across the field. When these experts assess suspicious images, they draw from their real-world experience with live devices and high-stakes incidents. Organizations tapping resources of this caliber benefit from a broader vantage point and create a force multiplier effect. Think about:  

• Who supports screeners when uncertainty arises?
• Are assessments grounded in specialized training and real-world experience?
• How consistent and defensible are the decisions being made?

3. Training and Continuous Improvement 

Even the best technology is only as strong as the people operating it. Organizations must evaluate both initial and ongoing screener training, carefully considering the evolving threat spectrum.  

Effective programs begin with structured onboarding led by qualified experts. Screeners need confidence in escalation protocols, and the assurance that no concern is “wrong” to raise. Beyond initial instruction, continuous improvement is key. Every flagged image is a learning opportunity, reinforcing cues, sharpening instincts, and boosting decision-making for the next anomaly. This cycle of feedback strengthens instincts, reduces uncertainty, and steadily raises the baseline effectiveness of screening. Programs that neglect this ongoing reinforcement risk stagnation, leaving personnel less prepared to identify subtle, evolving threats. Consider:

• What training do screeners receive at deployment — and how often is it refreshed?
• Are escalation protocols clear, and are screeners encouraged to act without hesitation?
• Does the program include real-time feedback loops that continuously strengthen decision-making?

4. Adapting to Evolving Threats 
 

Threats are not static. Bad actors continuously evolve their tradecraft, drawing on global incidents, new concealment methods, and innovative delivery tactics. What was relevant last year may be obsolete today. A screening program that does not evolve alongside these shifts risks becoming ineffective at the very moment it is needed most.

The most resilient programs are dynamic. They blend technology and human expertise, regularly revisiting protocols, updating training, and leveraging new tools such as machine learning and artificial intelligence to complement—not replace—skilled personnel. This proactive approach helps organizations anticipate rather than react, maintaining strength against both known and emerging threats. Remember to evaluate:  

• How frequently are screening protocols and training updated to reflect the latest threat intelligence?
• Does the program incorporate insights from incidents abroad or across industries to stay ahead of copycat tactics?
• Is the balance between technology and human expertise optimized for adaptability?

The Bottom Line

Screening is a critical layer of any protective strategy – but its true power lies in the combination of speed, expertise, training, and adaptability. Organizations that ask the right questions, continually evaluate their programs, and invest in specialized skills safeguard not just people and assets – but operational continuity and trust.  

About SmartTech®

SmartTech® is a patented solution of Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services that connects front-line screeners and their X-ray machines with certified bomb technicians inside a 24/7/365 Emergency Operations Center. With more than 1,200 units deployed in more than 60 countries, SmartTech® delivers rapid resolution — in 90 seconds or less — while reinforcing best practices and quality training through every interaction. By pairing advanced technology with unmatched subject matter expertise, SmartTech® helps organizations strengthen their screening programs and stay ahead of evolving threats. 

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About Justin Kelley 
Justin Kelley leads Canine and SmartTech operations for Enhanced Protection Services globally. As a 24-year veteran of the Connecticut State Police Department, he served as Commanding Officer/Executive Officer of the Connecticut State Police Emergency Services Unit which was comprised of the Tactical Team, Bomb Squad, Weapons of Mass Destruction Response Unit, Dive Team, Canine Unit, and Aviation Unit. While serving as the Commanding Officer, Kelley was responsible for coordinating the State and Federal response to WMD/Bombing events for the public and private sectors, with the goal of protecting state citizens and assets from injury and damage. As a Bomb Squad commander, he was a member of the Joint Terrorism Task Force. Kelley was  a subject matter expert for the National Center for Security and Preparedness in the area of Advanced Active Shooter and IED Response for First Responders and Investigators. He has also traveled to active shooter sites and met with first responders and survivors from some of this country’s worst active shooter incidents including: Aurora CO, Newtown CT, Tucson AZ, Sikh Temple in Wisconsin, Virginia Tech, Chardon High School, Chardon OH. Justin Kelley is CPP board certified by ASIS

The holidays always seem to arrive fast. One minute we’re easing into November and the next we’re circling parking lots, juggling bags and trying to cross a dozen things off our lists. 

It’s a busy and exciting time but it can also be when we’re the most distracted. And that’s exactly why safety matters. Allied Universal, doesn’t see holiday shopping as merely a security challenge. We see it as something simple and human: people trying to enjoy the season and get home safely. 

Our teams see the reality of holiday shopping every day. The rush, the fatigue, the full hands and the moments when someone needs a little awareness or reassurance. A quick glance toward security, a friendly reminder or a well-lit parking area can change how someone feels and how smoothly their day goes. 

10 Ways to Help Stay Safe While You Shop 

These aren’t just safety tips — they’re small, thoughtful choices that help protect your time, your belongings and your peace of mind. 
 

At the End of the Day, It’s About People 
 

Holiday shopping isn’t really about the items. It’s about the people behind them. Everyone deserves to feel safe while doing something as simple as picking out a gift. Whether you’re navigating crowded aisles, making late-night gift runs, or returning to your car under holiday lights, Allied Universal is committed to helping protect what matters most: people. Move with confidence. Make the small choices that help create safer moments. 
 

Each day, Alexander and Ziva conduct proactive sweeps for explosives, respond to security calls, and provide reassurance to the clients they serve. A five-year-old Belgian Malinois, Ziva pairs high drive with precise control—a combination that makes her both approachable and all business when it’s time to work.

“Don’t let her friendly face fool you—Ziva is all business on duty,” Alexander says. “The moment the leash goes on, she locks in with me and we’re ready to get to work as partners.”

From Law Enforcement to K9 Handling

Like all handlers in the Allied Universal Enhanced Protection Services network who carry either military or law enforcement backgrounds, Alexander built a career grounded in service and accountability. His law enforcement background spans more than a decade, including time as a Police Sergeant with the Department of Commerce in Washington, D.C. and as a campus officer at a major university in Philadelphia. Early in his career, he served as an Animal Cruelty Investigator with the New Jersey SPCA, handling cases of neglect, abuse, and illegal dogfighting—many of which overlapped with narcotics and gang activity.  
 

“I’ve always had a passion for animals and for helping people,” he explains. “Becoming a K9 handler was the perfect way to bring those two worlds together. Working with Ziva gives me a real sense of purpose—every day we’re doing something that matters. It’s challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. I couldn’t ask for a more driven partner or a more fulfilling mission.”  

When he learned of an opportunity to join Allied Universal’s Detection Canine Program, Alexander didn’t hesitate. While training with Ziva at one of the company’s many regional training centers, the two quickly bonded with shared drive and energy. The team completed their explosives detection certification through Allied Universal’s nationally recognized program, which uses real explosive compounds and rigorous independent third-party assessors to validate accuracy in the field. “From the start, it felt like a great match—we’re both high-energy and ready to go at a moment’s notice.” 

Protecting with Purpose

Today, Alexander and Ziva cover a wide area across the greater Philadelphia region, supporting a network of financial institutions with both proactive and rapid-response operations. Their daily work reflects the full spectrum of threat mitigation—from preventive sweeps before executive visits to real-time response when concerns arise on site.  

Alexander’s background in law enforcement and crisis intervention brings additional strength to the team. He’s trained to assess risk quickly, de-escalate tense situations, and communicate clearly under pressure. “We might visit five sites in a day, sometimes more,” he says. “Other days, a single call can take several hours as we work through a plan. It’s never the same day twice—that’s what keeps us sharp.” Years of experience in emergency response have honed his ability to read situations and defuse them with steady control. “You learn to stay calm no matter what’s happening,” he adds. “People feed off your energy, and when they see you’re composed, it helps bring the situation down a notch. Having Ziva there helps too—she commands respect just with her presence.”

Ziva’s precision and reliability are the perfect complement. Trained exclusively for explosives detection, she operates with unwavering focus and accuracy. “She loves people and she’s incredibly social, but when it’s time to work, she switches gears instantly,” Alexander says. “You can see her whole posture change. She’s tuned in.” 

Life Beyond the Leash 

Off duty, Alexander’s home life is as full as his workdays. He and his wife are raising four children along with two other dogs: Blue, an Alaskan Husky, and Huggy, a Shepherd-Husky mix. “It’s a full house,” he laughs. “But the dogs all get along great. Ziva’s got a calm side once we’re home—she curls up under the bed like it’s her cave.”

When he’s not working, Alexander enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and photography. “Ziva’s even photogenic,” he says. “She’s a great model when she sits still long enough.”

Through every call, sweep, and long drive across the city, one thing remains constant: the bond between handler and canine. “Ziva gives her all every single day,” Alexander says. “She’s my partner, my backup, and my best teammate. I couldn’t ask for more.” 

When emergencies strike—whether sudden wildfires, large-scale events, or workplace threats—organizations need security partners who can move quickly, adapt seamlessly, and protect people and assets under pressure.

We sat down with John Bernal, Senior Director of Operations for the Disaster and Emergency Response (DER) team at Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services, to talk about what drives successful deployments and how layered security solutions make the difference in high-stakes environments. 

John, can you begin by sharing more about your role and team’s expertise?

I oversee the temporary and emergency response side of DER—anything short-term or urgent that requires specialized protection. That ranges from a single officer on fire watch to complex deployments involving armed agents, executive protection, and crowd management. We also handle natural disaster responses, workplace violence incidents, large-scale events, and secure transports. Essentially, if a client needs tailored security for days, weeks, or even months, my team builds and delivers that solution. If we need to engage with other practices within our organization to help build out the security program, we do. These might include Investigations, Executive Protection, Consulting, Intelligence, and K9 Detection.  

One of the deployments your team managed recently was a multi-day flagship conference.  What was unique about that environment?

The challenge with events like that is the mix of high-profile attendees, valuable assets, and huge crowds that span across multiple zones with numerous access points. You can’t rely on a single layer of security—it has to be a coordinated, multi-practice approach. For that deployment, we brought together several security functions: risk assessment and tactical planning, weapons detection screening, K9 units for explosives and firearms detection, and an executive protection detail. A unified command center and real-time communication with local law enforcement helped tie it all together.

That layered model allowed us to manage everything from counterfeit badge attempts to crowd incidents, while also creating a visible sense of safety for attendees. It’s a good example of how different service lines integrate to provide one seamless security solution.

On the other end of the spectrum, your team delivered support to the communities impacted by the California wildfires. How does a disaster response differ from an event deployment?

The environment is completely different—unpredictable, fast-moving, and emotionally charged. In that case, we were asked to secure bank branches with damaged vaults, protect insurance offices, and escort claims adjusters into hazardous neighborhoods. With local resources stretched thin, our ability to mobilize and scale quickly was critical.

We deployed retired law enforcement officers who not only provided protection but also had strong local relationships, which gave us access and credibility in restricted areas. We also layered our coverage: unarmed guards where visibility mattered most, armed agents for higher-risk sites, and active law enforcement coordination when needed. That adaptability is what allowed us to help protect assets and help businesses keep operating during the evolving crisis.

From your perspective, what are some of the common denominators for success across such different scenarios?

Adaptability and depth of resources. You must be able to scale quickly, pivot when something unexpected happens, and layer security appropriately. Sometimes that means more officers for visibility, other times it’s fewer people with higher-level expertise. What matters is having the right mix at the right time.

It also comes down to planning and partnerships. Success comes from working as one unified team—and that can be internally within our various specialty practices or externally with local law enforcement. And of course, the people—the professionalism, training, and calm under pressure—that’s the engine that makes it all work.

You mention the strength of the team. How does your team’s background—many coming from military or law enforcement—help in these situations?

It makes a big difference. Prior military personnel are used to operating in austere environments, with limited resources, and staying steady under pressure. Former law enforcement bring experience in dealing with the public, de-escalating situations, and managing incidents in real time. Together, those backgrounds create a balance—discipline and adaptability on one hand, communication and situational awareness on the other. It means when we send people out, they’re not just standing watch. They’re actively problem-solving, bringing intelligence back, and helping us shape a stronger solution for the client as conditions change.

What does this tell us about the broader value of DER services?

At the end of the day, organizations need more than bodies at a site. They need trusted professionals who can protect people, property, and operations no matter the environment—planned events, sudden disasters, or emerging threats. 

The value is in the layers: tailoring the right mix of expertise, technology, and personnel to the situation at hand. That flexibility, and the ability to integrate across practices, is what makes us effective when it matters most. 

About John Bernal 
John Bernal is Senior Director of Operations for Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services, where he leads the company’s Emergency Response Center and oversees threat, disaster, and emergency response deployments nationwide. A U.S. Army veteran, John brings extensive experience from both the public and private sectors, including leadership in protective services, behavioral threat assessment, and crisis operations.

He holds the ASIS International “Triple Crown” of certifications — Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), and Professional Certified Investigator (PCI) — as well as the Certified Threat Manager (CTM) credential from the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals. John also played a key role in designing Allied Universal’s internal credentialing program for ERC operators, raising the standard for readiness across the team.

Before entering private security, John served as a Parole Agent III Supervisor, where he oversaw high-risk caseloads and advanced behavioral threat assessments. Today, he continues to shape the field through active involvement with ASIS International, including contributions to certification programs and technical committees on workplace violence prevention and active assailant response. 

As Program Manager for a high-profile client, Oscar oversees a uniquely scaled firearms and explosives detection program spanning nine critical sites across North America. He and Iris are part of a global network of more than 1,000 Allied Universal detection canine teams deployed to protect environments where people, assets, and infrastructure demand the highest level of security.  

A Mission-Ready Mindset

Oscar’s role blends frontline precision with behind-the-scenes leadership that suits his background well. In addition to working alongside three-year-old Iris, he manages performance, contract compliance, and evolving site protocols, acting as the primary liaison for both internal teams and the client. It’s a complex, high-stakes environment that demands both field acumen and business fluency—qualities Oscar brings through a strong foundation in military service and formal business education, including an MBA and bachelor’s degree in business.

“As a program manager, I’m developing system solutions and supporting processes that enable our dogs and handlers to succeed every day,” Oscar explains. “We never compromise on quality. The bar is always high because our clients expect excellence, and so do we.” 

A veteran of the U.S. Air Force and California Air National Guard, Oscar served as a weapons load crew member for the A-10 “Warthog,” supporting deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. The experience sharpened his leadership instincts and instilled a mission-first mindset grounded in discipline, readiness, and execution. Those same principles now shape his approach to canine operations—helping him lead with precision, purpose, and a commitment to quality on every front.

Iris: Athlete, Partner, Force Multiplier

She’s fast. She’s focused. And she’s one of the most capable detection dogs in the field. At just three years old, K9 Iris already demonstrates the discipline, endurance, and drive of a seasoned pro. “She’s built to work,” Oscar says. “You can see it in the way she moves. Her energy is purposeful. She knows exactly what she’s here to do.” 

Iris is dual certified as an Explosives Detection Canine (EDC) and Firearms Detection Canine (FDC)—a distinction that elevates her impact in the field. All Allied Universal FDC dogs begin with the same foundation: real-world training on actual explosive compounds. They imprint and train on all five families of military and commercial-grade explosives, as well as high-risk homemade threats like TATP and HMTD.

From there, dogs like Iris undergo additional imprinting to identify the unique chemical signatures associated with firearms. Whether the weapon has been discharged or is completely static, she is trained to alert with precision—and without disrupting the surrounding environment. This specialized skillset makes her ideally suited to complex, high-traffic settings where subtlety and accuracy are essential. But it’s not just training that drives results. It’s trust.

Oscar and Iris operate as a seamless unit, sweeping sprawling indoor and outdoor environments every day and logging countless steps. Their communication is nearly invisible, built on repetition, intuition, and mutual respect. “She’s incredibly responsive and we understand each other,” explains Oscar. “That kind of bond doesn’t happen overnight. You build it by showing up—together—every single day to do good work.”

Life Beyond the Leash

When the shift ends, Iris heads home with Oscar, where the pace slows and she shares her downtime with Oscar’s retired partner, Laka. 

“At work, Iris is nonstop. At home, she settles right into our more laid-back routine—at least for a while,” Oscar says. “She’ll nudge you for attention, stretch out for a nice nap, then be back on her feet, ready for a good game of tag. She definitely enjoys her downtime, but she doesn’t sit still for long.”

Oscar isn’t one to sit still either. A dedicated runner and marathoner, he loves being outdoors—and even when he is not training for a race, he often heads out for a quick jog with Iris trotting at his side and Laka cheering from the sidelines. “Laka used to run with me, but at nine years old, she’s earned the privilege of lazier days at home,” Oscar says. “Iris has taken the baton, and she never lets me skip a workout.”