New Mexico Security Guard Practice Exam

What should a security guard prioritize in an emergency situation?

1. Finding the nearest exit

2. Ensuring personal safety first

3. Alerting the appropriate authorities

4. Documenting the event immediately

The correct answer is: Alerting the appropriate authorities

In an emergency situation, the most critical priority for a security guard is to ensure personal safety first. This is essential because a security guard is in a position to confront potentially dangerous circumstances, and if they do not take measures to protect themselves, they cannot effectively assist others or fulfill their responsibilities. Ensuring personal safety includes assessing the situation quickly, determining if the threat can be handled, or if evacuation is necessary. Once personal safety is established, a security guard can then focus on alerting the appropriate authorities and providing assistance to others. While alerting authorities and documenting events are important, they come after ensuring one's own safety. Prioritizing safety ensures that a guard can respond effectively without becoming part of the problem or putting themselves at unnecessary risk.