How dangerous is it to be a private investigator?

Private investigators have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. The job is so dangerous that it has a mortality rate higher than any other profession, including police officers and firefighters. How does this happen? How can we protect our private investigators? As a private investigator in San Diego, we wrote this blog post from our perspective. This blog post will answer these questions and more!

First things first: why are PI's killed at such high rates when they're law enforcement professionals who carry guns while on duty?

One reason could be because their work often puts them in contact with people involved in criminal activities or illicit trades where violence is commonplace. For example, many investigations require surveillance which may lead to some tense face-to-face confrontations with suspects or leads--and those moments must always be handled carefully.

1. Private investigators are trained to be aware of their surroundings and watch out for suspicious activity

Private investigators are trained to be aware of their surroundings and watch out for suspicious activity.

But even with training, some PI's have been killed in the line of duty because they were attacked by a suspect or lead who had a weapon--or worse yet, took the investigator’s own gun from them during an altercation.

This is why it can't hurt to know how to protect yourself: use situational awareness as much as possible; carry your agency-issued firearm at all times when on assignment; conceal any other weapons you're carrying (knives, tasers) until you need them; if faced with someone that might pose a threat, try not to make direct eye contact and back away slowly instead; remain alert and focused.

2. There is always a risk when an investigator is following someone, but there are ways to minimize the danger

For starters, the investigator should be aware of his or her surroundings, and if they see anything suspicious, should call for backup immediately.

Secondly, when following someone on foot, an investigative professional can follow at a safe distance without drawing attention to themselves-which is one less person in danger when trouble arises.

Lastly-and most importantly--the private detective must always carry their firearm with them while conducting surveillance activities because it may be necessary to use deadly force against their target; additionally there are some states that require licensed investigators have a permit to conceal/carry firearms as well.

3. When investigating divorce cases, it's important to keep your emotions in check

Divorce cases have many emotional aspects that can cloud an investigator's judgment when it comes to investigating, especially in the case of infidelity.

When following someone on foot: "Secondly, when following someone on foot, an investigative professional can follow at a safe distance without drawing attention to themselves-which is one less person in danger when trouble arises."

"Lastly-and most importantly--the private detective must always carry their firearm with them while conducting surveillance activities because it may be necessary to use deadly force against their target; additionally there are some states that require licensed investigators have a permit to conceal/carry firearms as well."​

4. The most dangerous situation that can happen as a private investigator would be being shot at or having your life threatened 

If this situation occurred, it would be prudent to call the police and report this as a crime in progress.

In some cases for private investigators that have had their life threatened or shot at before, they may choose not to carry firearms because of past experiences with threats or violence-so carrying only pepper spray would be an option instead.

5. Being a PI isn't for everyone - you need patience and persistence in order to succeed 

There are many situations that can't be predicted and you need to be able to stay calm in order for your skills as a PI to shine through.

You also have the opportunity of making long-term connections with people because they know you're an investigator, which is something not everyone gets the chance at doing.

This enables them to trust your judgment more if they come back later on asking for help or wanting information-"​I've been robbed" "My husband's cheating."

It may take a while before being successful but it will happen eventually!

In conclusion,

Private investigators are constantly on the lookout for danger and they have one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. They work to uncover information about crimes, frauds, or other illegal activities that could harm their clients or company’s reputation. The stakes are high and they need to be vigilant every day at all times when out on a case because you never know what might happen next. A private investigator can provide valuable assistance with investigations into things like missing persons cases, corporate espionage, insurance claims disputes, among many others. If your business is looking for an investigative partner who will go above and beyond to get results—even if it means putting themselves in jeopardy—contact us today!