What to Do When You Witness a Crime as a Security Guard

What should a security guard do if they witness a crime in progress?

• A. Ignore it and continue patrol
• B. Try to apprehend the suspect
• C. Contact law enforcement and ensure the safety of others
• D. Report it to their supervisor only

Answer: (C)

When a security guard witnesses a crime in progress, the most appropriate action is to contact law enforcement and ensure the safety of others. This response emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the safety of the public and understanding that law enforcement is trained to handle such situations. By notifying the police, the security guard enables trained professionals to respond effectively and assess the situation. Additionally, ensuring the safety of bystanders or individuals in the vicinity should be a primary concern. This may involve moving people away from potential danger, creating a secure area, or signaling for help. While trying to apprehend a suspect may seem like a proactive approach, it can pose significant risks to the guard and others, especially if the suspect is armed or violent. Ignoring the situation or merely reporting it to a supervisor could delay necessary police intervention, which might escalate the situation and endanger lives. Therefore, contacting law enforcement immediately while focusing on safety is a responsible and effective course of action.

Picture this: you’re on your usual patrol, keeping an eye out for anything unusual when suddenly, you witness a crime unfolding right in front of you. What do you do? Do you stride in like a superhero and try to apprehend the wrongdoer yourself? Or do you turn a blind eye and hope someone else handles it? Spoiler alert: there's a better approach, and it’s your duty to know it.

The Right Call: Contacting the Authorities

When faced with such a scenario, the first thing you should do is contact law enforcement. Seriously, this is not just about calling 911 and hoping for the best. It’s about ensuring the safety of everyone involved and letting trained professionals handle the mess. Sure, it sounds straightforward, but let’s unpack why it’s crucial.

The Importance of Safety First

The safety of the public and yourself should always be the top priority. You know what? Being a hero in the movies looks cool, but in real life, things can take a dangerous turn—especially if the person committing the crime is armed or volatile. By focusing on ensuring the safety of others, you’re paving the way for a calmer resolution and protecting yourself. Remember, your role is to monitor and report, not to engage directly.

Making the Right Moves

So, what does advocating for safety look like? It can involve:

• Moving people away from any danger zones.

• Securing the area until help arrives.

• Communicating clearly to others how they should react—whether to evacuate or stay hidden.

This proactive yet cautious approach allows you to manage the situation effectively while minimizing risks.

The Risks of Taking Matters into Your Own Hands

You might think, "Why not just tackle the situation?" While that’s an admirable instinct, let's pause and consider the reality. Attempting to apprehend a suspect can escalate tensions and put you and others in harm's way. Not to mention, if you aren't trained to handle such incidents, you could create a chaotic environment that’s unsafe for everyone involved.

Here’s the thing: law enforcement officers undergo extensive training to deal with confrontations, assess threats, and resolve crises. You’re well-trained in vigilance and reporting, so lean into that skill set.

Passing the Buck? Not Quite

Now, what about the option to just report it to your supervisor? While that sounds responsible, let me tell you—waiting too long to notify law enforcement could lead to disastrous consequences. Think about it: every second counts. You may think your supervisor will take care of it, but it's better to act swiftly and let the pros handle the dangerous stuff.

Why These Protocols Matter

Developing a clear and precise protocol for these situations isn’t just about what you do; it’s about what you don’t do. Ignoring the crime is not an option—it’s a failure to protect and serve. You have a duty to uphold the safety standards not only for yourself but for the entire community.

Final Words of Wisdom

So, as you prepare for your journey into becoming a licensed security guard, remember that knowing the right steps to take when you witness a crime is just as vital as any training exercise. Adhering to protocols, prioritizing safety, and knowing when to alert law enforcement are the hallmarks of a good security officer.

As you study, keep these insights in mind, and you’ll be well-equipped to handle whatever situations arise. After all, being a security guard isn’t just about watching over the premises; it’s about protecting people and promoting safety in every sense.