Are patrols random or scheduled?

Most patrols are performed within a time window — typically at least one hour — to keep timing unpredictable and discourage unwanted activity. For even greater deterrence, we can extend the window with no upper limit for true randomization (it keeps them guessing!). That said, when the situation calls for it, we’re happy to schedule patrols at specific times — whether it's to address recurring issues, lock or unlock gates, or ensure staff make it to their vehicles safely.

What’s the difference between exterior and interior patrols?

Exterior patrols offer the highest visibility and are the most cost-effective option — perfect for deterring unwanted activity. Interior patrols, while less visible and slightly more costly, provide a closer look at what’s happening inside. These patrols can catch things beyond security threats, like leaks, safety hazards, or lights left on. It’s all about balancing visibility, cost, and the level of detail your site needs.

How do I know patrols are actually being done effectively?

Every patrol comes with a detailed report and multiple layers of verification to ensure it’s completed properly. Guards cannot start a patrol in our system unless they are physically on-site, verified by GPS. Many properties also include scannable checkpoints mounted on site for added accountability and more granular tracking of the patrol activities. Additionally, body camera footage is automatically recorded during patrols — unless a client specifically requests otherwise. All reports, tracking data, and video footage are made available to you for full transparency and peace of mind.

What kind of reporting will I receive?

A comprehensive patrol report is generated every 24 hours, summarizing all patrols conducted at your site. It includes patrol details, any incident summaries, images captured, and links to body camera footage. If preferred, we can also send reports immediately after each patrol. For significant events, we generate a detailed occurrence report, which is always delivered right away. All reports, photos, videos, and even invoices and copies of the contract are instantly accessible through your secure client portal (if subscribed).

What happens if a patroller notices a problem at my site?

If a patroller discovers anything out of the ordinary — like an open door, damage, or suspicious activity — they document it immediately and, if needed, escalate it according to your site instructions. You’ll receive a report, photos, and body cam footage (if applicable), and we’ll reach out directly if the issue is urgent.

What kind of training do your mobile patrol guards have?

All NorthGate Security Guards receive the provincially mandated training required for licensing — but that’s just the starting point. Before deployment, our personnel complete a wide range of additional instructor-led, self-paced, and online courses, including topics like report writing, photographic evidence collection, WHMIS 2015, customer service, fire safety, OH&S, cultural awareness, wildlife safety, and basic first aid. They also undergo a thorough onboarding program covering NorthGate’s standards, policies, communication protocols, and professional conduct.

Mobile Patrol Officers receive even more specialized training in areas such as precision driving, traffic control, advanced fire response, security systems, and team leadership. This is just a sample of the extensive training our staff receive. NorthGate proudly invests a larger share of its budget into training than most security firms — because we believe better training means better protection.

How does NorthGate Security’s mobile patrol differ from other providers?

At NorthGate, we prioritize the quality of each patrol — not the quantity. Unlike many providers who rush through as many sites as possible to maximize volume, we take the time needed to deliver meaningful, thorough patrols tailored to each client’s needs. Our approach ensures that our guards are fully engaged, observant, and focused while on your property — not racing against a packed schedule.

We also believe in value-aligned pricing. That means our rates scale with the complexity of your patrol — simple sites pay less, while more involved or high-risk patrols are priced accordingly. You’ll never be overcharged for basic coverage, and when you need more attention, you'll receive the level of service that matches your investment. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t overcharge — we charge fairly, and we deliver results.

What can a mobile patroller do for me?

For a modest investment, mobile patrols add a strong, visible layer to your security plan — a presence that helps deter unwanted activity and reinforces that your property is being actively watched and cared for.

Our patrollers can perform a variety of tasks tailored to your needs: locking and unlocking doors or gates, checking that alarms are armed and lights are off, discouraging trespassers, extinguishing campfires, confirming employees have properly secured the site, and checking in on your night shift staff to ensure their safety and well-being.

In addition to these tasks, patrollers generate detailed reports during every visit. They document any irregularities, such as open doors, broken lights, safety hazards, maintenance issues, or signs of unauthorized activity.

They’re your eyes and ears at night — steady, watchful, and always looking out for what matters.

What areas in Prince George do you cover?

We provide mobile patrol services throughout the entire Prince George area, generally covering everything within a 25 km radius of downtown. If your property falls within or near city limits, we’ve got you covered.

How quickly can service be started?

Immediately. From the moment you request service, your first patrol can be on-site in as little as 15 minutes. We can generate a contract and create all the necessary scheduling for patrols in minutes — any time, day or night.

Is there a cost advantage to mobile patrols over static guards?

Absolutely. The cost difference is significant, and mobile patrols have far fewer contract term restrictions than a static guard. Static guards offer the ultimate in protection, for sure, and in a lot of circumstances they are definitely the right choice. But for most use cases, mobile is the best choice as a cost-sensitive alternative. Mobile patrols can even be more deterring than a static guard; a static guard has a known position and can be monitored and predicted more easily than a mobile patroller who can show up suddenly and quite randomly. Not to mention the incredible visible deterrent of a brightly marked car — much easier to notice than just the guard alone.

How is technology used in your patrol services?

We use proprietary technology to enhance accountability, transparency, and efficiency. Our patrols are tracked in real time using GPS, and guards scan on-site checkpoints during each visit to confirm their routes. Body cameras activate automatically when a patrol begins (unless opted out), and all reports, images, and videos are synced directly to your client portal.

We also use a secure, cloud-based reporting platform that ensures every patrol is documented, stored, and accessible whenever you need it. From incident history to time-stamped location data, you’ll always have a clear view of your site’s security history.

Can I customize my patrol service to fit specific needs or risks?

Absolutely. Every site has different needs — that’s why we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. Patrol frequency, timing, and tasks can all be tailored to match your property's layout, operations, and level of risk.

Need us to check a specific door, count the number of cars in the parking lot, or make sure staff exit safely at closing? No problem. We build each patrol with purpose — and adjust as your needs evolve.

What kind of contract terms do you offer for mobile patrols?

Most of our mobile patrol contracts are completely flexible. Want to add patrols at 2 a.m.? Sure — subject to availability, we can make it happen. Need to cancel right away? No problem — we’ll handle it smoothly and respectfully. Planning to pause service for a few weeks during renovations? That’s totally fine — we’ll be ready when you are.

We never bill for a patrol we don't complete.

We don’t believe in locking clients into rigid, long-term commitments. Our job is to make your life easier — not harder.

Do you offer one-time or short-term patrols?

Yes. Whether it’s for a weekend, a specific event, holiday, or during a temporary closure, we can provide short-term or one-time patrol coverage. There’s no need to commit long-term — if you need eyes on your property for just a few days, we’re ready to help.

Can I get notified immediately if something goes wrong?

Absolutely. If a patrol uncovers something urgent — like an unsecured building, a hazard, or suspicious activity — the guard will follow your site-specific procedures. This may include contacting you immediately, notifying a third party, or taking other steps based on your preferences. We’ll always follow your instructions when handling urgent events.

Are your patrol vehicles marked and visible?

Yes. Our patrol vehicles are clearly marked, professionally maintained, and highly visible. They create an immediate visual deterrent — showing that your property is under watch, and not worth the risk.