By Darren Scott, Resource Coordinator

As an employee of ASP and due to the nature of our business, you may find yourself facing the media.

If you are in front of the media during an event or a crisis and appear rude, unsympathetic and insecure, that can damage the reputation of ASP and our clients. If you come across as calm and collected or even apologetic, you can enhance ASP and our client’s reputations.

How can we get it right? Prepare, because media likes controversy and may take advantage of individuals who seem unsure and unprepared. Preparing is having a strategy in mind when dealing with a crisis and media may be present. If you are in a situation, small or large, and the media is present, you can follow these tips to help ASP as a brand and uphold our client’s reputation.

  1. Stay calm and professional.

Talking to a reporter can be difficult. Keep your responses light; don’t make jokes as you may be quoted out of context. Remember the reporter is looking to make news from what you say.

Stick to confirmed facts and don’t offer more information than required. Most importantly, act normal and relax to avoid sounding insincere or unsympathetic. Offer reassurance to all people involved whether it be the media, staff or coworkers. First impressions matter, so speak clearly and confidently.

2. Never say anything you wouldn’t want published.

There is no such thing as ‘off-the-record’ when talking with a reporter. Anything you say can be used without permission to publish online or print. Be accurate and truthful in everything you say. If you are unsure, decline to respond. Example: “I do not have that information”.


The importance of office ergonomics is often overlooked until someone experiences discomfort or sustains an injury, such as carpal tunnel or a repetitive strain injury.

By implementing the following simple changes in the setup of your workspace, you can help prevent these injuries from occurring in the first place.

Chair: Adjust the height of your chair so that your feet rest flat on the floor and your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle. Your forearms should be parallel to the floor while your hands are resting on your keyboard and your wrists should not be bent. Pay attention to your posture and avoid slouching while seated.

Computer Monitor: Your monitor should be positioned at or slightly below eye level. Adjust the brightness of your monitor and take frequent eye breaks to reduce the likelihood of eye strain. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that you follow the 20-20-20 rule for eye breaks: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, and focus your eyes on something at least 20 feet away.

Desk: Ensure that frequently used items on your desk are placed within easy reach, eliminating the need to stretch unnecessarily. Remove items from under your desk that may be preventing you from having proper foot placement. Move or tie up loose cables that could pose a tripping hazard.

By following these tips, you are taking the first steps to having a safe and comfortable workspace. This will enhance your productivity and help you avoid future pain and discomfort. It can sometimes be difficult to see the value in spending time to set up an ergonomic workspace, but these minor changes could prevent a major injury.


By Debbie Ciccotelli, Director, Strategic Initiatives

Motivation is the force that drives us to do things – the inspiration behind our behaviour and our actions. It is what gets us up in the morning and keeps us going through the day.

I had the pleasure of conversing with a young man recently. He had just completed his basic training and started
work as an airport security guard. The passion this young man had for his new role was evident in his facial expressions, body language and tone of voice as well as the words which he spoke. He told me about his love for aviation and how this job fulfilled this passion. He embraced the recruitment and training process and was so proud to put on his uniform and begin work. His trainer informed me that he had never seen a new employee with such passion, energy and excitement. This young man’s positive mindset, passion and energy will be a source of motivation and energy for others.

Observing someone who is beginning their career with a true awareness of their passion and self- motivation is truly inspiring. It forces you to take a step back and ask yourself – what is my motivation? As time goes by, our motivations will change, therefore it is important we self-assess and identify those things in life that really motivate and inspire us to be the best we can be. Self-motivation is a life skill, which we should build upon and nurture throughout our entire life. It is behind our success in all areas of life and in everything we do.

Motivated and passionate employees are more resilient and energetic about their work, have a stronger sense of wellbeing and provide a positive source of energy for others around them.


By Petra Nash, Executive Assistant

On June 27th, 2019, ASP Security Services and Airfield Access Inc. got together for the 5th annual Client Appreciation Golf Tournament.

The charity chosen this year to sponsor was Reach Out Centre for Kids.

ROCK™ was designated by the Ministry of Child and Youth Services (MCYS) as the child and youth mental health Lead Agency for Halton in August 2014. With programs and services that run out of 11

sites and three main offices, ROCK™ is committed to being inclusive, client-centred and family-centred. With over 40 years of service in Halton, we are dedicated to building strong people, strong families and strong communities. ROCK™ promotes and achieves optimal mental health in kids and families.

The golf tournament was a phenomenal success.

Clients and employees gathered together to help support a good cause. Raffles, putting contests and silent auction items had guests donating to a great cause. The total value raised $2,675!

Thank you to all our clients, sponsors and employees for their continued hard work, and a big thank you also goes out to Reach Out Centre for Kids for the ongoing support they provide to the community.


By Cliff Sampogna, Regional Manager

Within the security industry, there is always room for growth and new opportunities with new business and sites.

I wanted to take this opportunity to congratulate the ASP family for the growth within the Residential and Commercial division again.


Sample ASP School Crossing Guard Equipment

In June, we were advised that we were awarded a new contract with the City of Toronto. This contract was awarded for two of the four School
Crossing Guard zones. This contract brings with it about 320-340 new employees. This was a big win for us, as we can showcase our high level of service in a specialized area that we would like to grow in. We will be starting this contract on September 3, 2019.

This contract was awarded to us due to our reputation and hard work that our field staff have done over the last several years at our sites. This is a testament of how important it is to always maintain a professional image and attitude.

This contract has provided us with another unique vertical market, as we will be providing crossing guard services at the client’s school cross walks in the North and West parts of GTA.

I wanted to welcome all the incumbent and new staff as we transition this contract and bring a large amount of intellectual capital on board through the highly experienced crossing guards. The team’s support and willingness to help has been a big part of the successes we are currently having early in this contract and transition. We have several projects in the works and I am looking forward to the continued growth within our ASP family and


They protect us from threats at public events, airports, government agencies and they're man's best friend. Let's pay homage to the K9 who sniffs for safety.

K9

Sniffing for Safety: K9 Fast Facts and Statistics

Here’s a fun fact about k9 security dogs: Babylonians, Greeks, and Assyrians were the first to have guard dogs. In their ancient cultures, guard dogs were used to protect treasures and tombs. Similarly, k9 security is used in the modern day to protect us from so much.

Security services using canines for protection know that these dogs are very extraordinary. They can detect drugs, explosives and have a lot of interesting things about them. Learn more about k9 security and how much of a service these beautiful creatures are!

K9 Are Scent Detectives

Primarily known as detection dogs, a k9 is trained to pick up on targeted scents and raise the alarm if they do. Those scents can be from a vast selection of things from drugs to firearms. And thanks to a k9 security’s keen sense of smell, they can detect these scents almost immediately.

Some of the main scents k9’s are trained to identify include:

  • Drugs
  • Firearms
  • Explosives
  • Cash
  • Criminal evidence
  • Miscellaneous contraband
  • Nothing Gets By Their Noses

Aside from detecting and alerting others about smells, k9 security dogs are able to point out scents that are being masked by odors. Dogs can smell in layers and use this to their advantage when trained to be a k9. They are taught to discern between an organic scent and a scent that is either hidden, buried, or otherwise masked.

They are also capable of telling the difference between multiple smells or multiple ingredients. Their nose will pick up on even the faintest chemical and can call it out immediately. This makes them the most thorough for sniffing out targeted scents in large arenas or busy locations.

They Make The Best Security

You would be surprised at how amazing a dog’s nose really is. Their sense of smell is far sharper than other animals or even humans. Their superior scent detection means they can also search areas much faster than humans too.

Their accuracy makes them very effective bomb detectors. Tons of research goes into the development of multiple security methods, including security companies in Toronto. But nothing has proven more effective than k9 security services.

Their Breeds Are Made For The Job

Plenty of breeds are perfect for the role of a k9. A few include Labradors and Spaniels but the official breed for k9 security are German Shepards. They were the first breed police officers used in World War 1, World War 2 and the Vietnam War.

This is likely due to their undeniable intelligence and ability to be trained to obey commands. German Shepards are notorious for their incredible work ethic. They are also known to display the following qualities:

Sociability — K9’s are sociable enough to be handled by people with ease. But they should not be so sociable that it distracts them from tasks. The presence of people should not throw them off.

Environmental Stability — K9’s won’t nervousness or hesitation around loud or strange noises. They show physical rigor regardless of working in very hot or very cold environments. They are also bold and capable of walking or climbing onto strange surfaces.

Desire to Earn Rewards — K9’s are driven to earn a reward for all of their hard work. They have to want that reward more than anything else. Food is not usually used as a reward since it is hard for handlers to carry and having too much food could confuse the dog.

Hunting Ability — K9’s have an intense drive and are motivated to continue hunting regardless if they find something. They must be trained not to show frustration or give any false alerts.

More Than Just Security Dogs

Nowadays, k9 dogs are specifically trained to become more than security. Given their incredible ability to not be distracted during searches, they make amazing seeing dogs. Using their keen sense of smell, they can alert their owners of what’s ahead of them.

K9 security dogs, however, provide a unique sense of security by simply being there. People, criminals included, can normally sense what k9s are capable too. Making it easier for k9 security to focus on any job that is in front of them.

A k9 has a different process to identify people, however, still relying on their sense of smell. They start by using their nose to test their surroundings. Then they move on to voice recognition and then to people’s silhouettes.

A k9 security dog can even tell the difference between identical twins. The go along the same process of identifying who is who and can always sniff out the difference.

You Can Trust K9 Security

Some of the best security guard companies in Toronto house and train the best k9 dogs around. They focus on matching dogs with the right handlers based on personality and lifestyle traits. These dogs are trained for six to eight weeks for initial training and certification.

Once deployed, k9 security can finally begin. The k9 dogs are trained throughout their careers on a regular basis with their handlers. They are also tested from time to time to maintain their certifications.

Good k9 security is driven by protecting others from harm. You can find out more about detection dogs or canine patrol services and have any of your questions answered by a professional security company. To have a deeper understanding of the training process for k9 dogs or how to secure your surroundings through their services, check out our website today!


Written by Cliff Sampogna

Within the security industry, there is always room for growth and new opportunities with new business and sites.

I wanted to take this opportunity to congratulate the ASP family for the growth within the Residential and Commercial division again.

In June, we were advised that we were awarded a new contract with the City of Toronto. This contract was awarded for two of the four Crossing Guard zones within the city of Toronto. This contract brings with it about 320-340 new employees. This was a big win for us as we can showcase our high level of service in a specialized area that we would like to grow in. We will be starting this contract on September 3, 2019.

This contract was awarded to us due to our reputation and hard work that our field staff have done over the last several years at our sites. This is a testament of how important it is to always maintain a professional image and attitude.

This contract has provided us with another unique vertical market as we will be providing security at the client’s cross walks in the North and West parts of GTA.

I wanted to welcome all the incumbent and new staff as we transition this contract and bring a large amount of intellectual capital on board through the highly experienced crossing guards. The teams support and willingness to help has been a big part of the successes we are currently having had early in this contract and transition.

We have several projects in the works and I am looking forward to the continued growth within our ASP family and to see where we can take this in the future.


Having a commercial security service means keeping your property safer and keeping your customers safer. There are certain tactics that are specifically used

What if your most valuable investment was at risk every night?

Wondering how such a service can meet your needs? Here are a few of the key tactics they will use to keep your property safe!

Controlled Access

Your business properties may be in danger of theft, property damage, and other calamities. And the only way to be sure your property is safe is to use a commercial security service.

Wondering what commercial security can do for your property? To start with, they will limit access to only authorized individuals.

This may include things like password-based electronic systems or fancier solutions such as biometrics. The end result is that no unauthorized personnel will be able to gain access to your property.

Even if you already have access control, a commercial security team may be able to identify its weak points and recommend a more robust solution. After all, relying on outdated access control means you are inviting thieves inside your property.

Improved Lighting

Speaking of thieves, they usually like to keep things simple. That means sticking to the shadows, which is why most corporate robberies happen during the evening.

One of the simpler security tactics the team may use is to improve lighting inside and outside the building. The ultimate goal is simple: you want to make it hard for anyone to skulk around in the darkness and plan their next move.

And as simple as it sounds, keep in mind that good lighting serves as a major deterrent to would-be thieves. If they have an option between your well-lit property and another, they are more likely to go after the other guy!

Better Signage

Along with better lighting, a good security service can help you to improve your signage. This can reduce theft and even lead to a workspace that is much safer.

For example, signs may warn people about your surveillance measures and other active security measures. By making everyone aware of how seriously you take security, you minimize the chances of anyone trying something.

Signage can also clearly indicate which areas are off-limits to non-employees. This may keep people from getting lost or even getting hurt in a way that might open you up to legal action.

At the Gates

Earlier, we talked about the benefits of access control. One of the best ways to enhance that control is to add security gates to a property.

The idea is to have gates (ideally multiple gates) manned by security personnel. And anyone who wants access to your buildings must pass through inspection first.

This alone is a very powerful deterrent, which is why it is used on military bases around the world. And it also means that you will have trained personnel inspecting every vehicle and person coming through, increasing the odds that anything dangerous will be discovered and confiscated.

Hide the Valuables

Pop quiz: what are the most valuable things in your office?

Many of us take the security of our workspace for granted. And that means we end up leaving valuable items out where anyone could easily take them.

A good commercial security team can help to identify valuable property and information and store it in a safe and accessible way. They specialize in “defensive thinking”: make it hard for someone to get in and even harder for them to find something.

Unless you have security training, then your properties are going to be vulnerable. But you can hire experts who can make everything much safer.

Mobile Surveillance

Surveillance has come a long way in the last couple of decades. Once, you would have to review grainy VHS tapes in the morning to see if there was an incident. Now, you can view an active feed on your smartphone with just the press of a button.

Unfortunately, there are many different mobile surveillance options available. These range from ultra-secure to devices you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy.

A commercial security service can help you obtain the best surveillance technology and applications. Furthermore, they can link everything up to your phone so that you have security control no matter where you go!

Card Access

Earlier, we talked about the importance of access control. In addition to things like biometrics, the security team can help to install specialized card readers in the most sensitive areas of your building.

This helps create a kind of security redundancy: a thief who can make it past one layer of security may be tripped up when they encounter the next layer.

And card readers are good because you can severely limit who gets access cards. If anything is stolen from those areas, you have an immediate short list of potential thieves!

Motion Sensors

As you may or may not know, most modern security systems link together. So, on top of the other measures, a security service can link everything to motion sensors.

Exterior lighting, for instance, may blaze on when the system detects motions. This gives the impression that someone is actively monitoring the area, creating a further deterrent.

Furthermore, you can receive smartphone alerts when motion is detected in certain areas. This lets you take a more active role in the security and defense of your property.

Improved Data Security

So far, we have focused primarily on physical security. This includes building access, valuable property, and so on.

However, the most valuable thing inside most businesses is the data you have collected and compiled. And if you’re not careful, this is also the most vulnerable part of the office.

Modern commercial security teams are skilled in all aspects of data security. They can help to reinforce your existing measures while also installing better safeguards where needed.

The final result is a property that is safe, both inside and out!

Commercial Security Service: The Bottom Line

Now you know what a commercial security service can do for you. But do you know who you can turn to for the best service?

At ASP Security Services, we protect residential and commercial properties of any size. To see how we can make your investments safer, reach out and contact us today!


Bristol Airport has re-appointed ICTS UK & Ireland as its Security partner, responsible for the provision of security services at the Airport.

“We are absolutely delighted to continue our long-standing partnership with Bristol Airport. We have supported the Airport through its business growth and significant expansion during the last few years and celebrate their 2018 record passenger numbers which reached over 8.6 million.

ICTS is fully committed to delivering the very best service to Bristol Airport and its passengers.

We are excited and look forward to this next phase and to being a part of the Airport’s plans to develop the region’s international gateway” said Levent Ural, Director of Operations – Aviation Security Services, ICTS UK & Ireland.

“We are pleased ICTS has been successful in securing the contract for security services at Bristol Airport, continuing the long-standing business partner relationship. It is important to select a business partner that is able to provide the commitment, flexibility and diversity of services an airport requires and ICTS has both the capability and breadth of experience needed to meet this requirement, and we look forward to continuing to develop our relationship with them.” Graeme Gamble, Chief Operating Officer, Bristol Airport

Bristol Airport is one of the 11 Airports in the UK and Ireland at which ICTS provides security services. ICTS is extremely proud of its long-serving partnership with Bristol Airport, which dates back to 2007.