What Every Security Guard Should Do During a Criminal Incident

What should be a security guard’s first step if a criminal offense happened to them while on site?

• A. Arrest the person using only as much force as necessary
• B. Wait until the end of the shift and write a report about the incident
• C. Call your supervisor and have the supervisor arrest the subject
• D. Report the incident to the police immediately

Answer: (D)

The correct answer is to report the incident to the police immediately. When a security guard experiences or witnesses a criminal offense, the priority should be to ensure that law enforcement is informed as soon as possible. This is crucial for several reasons. First, involving the police allows for a professional response to the crime, as they are trained to handle such situations and will be able to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and take any necessary actions against the perpetrator. Prompt reporting also helps to create an official record of the event, which can be vital for later investigations or legal proceedings. Secondly, notifying the police immediately can help protect the safety of others on the premises. Immediate police involvement can lead to a faster resolution of the situation, potentially deterring further criminal activity. While options like attempting to make an arrest or waiting until the shift is over may seem like a way to address the situation, they can lead to complications such as escalating the situation or missing critical evidence that could aid law enforcement. Engaging in a physical confrontation could also increase the risk to the guard and others nearby. Thus, the most responsible and effective action is to report the incident to the police right away.

When it comes to working as a security guard, a lot of it boils down to understanding your role, especially in critical moments like facing a criminal offense. So, what should you do if you find yourself in such a situation? There’s one clear answer: You must report the incident to the police immediately. Sounds straightforward, right? But let’s break it down further.

Why the rush? Well, for starters, calling the police right away is about ensuring a professional response to the crime scene. Police officers undergo extensive training for this exact purpose. They know how to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and take action against the wrongdoer effectively. It’s like bringing in the specialists when your car breaks down; would you try fixing the engine yourself or call a mechanic? No contest!

Also, getting law enforcement involved quickly helps create an official record of the event. This record can be crucial for future investigations or legal proceedings. If you think about it, having that paper trail can mean the difference between a successful case or a missed opportunity to catch a criminal. Wouldn’t you want to stand on solid ground when it comes to such serious matters?

Now, consider the safety of others on the premises. Involving the police without delay can lead to a swift resolution of the situation. It can deter any further criminal activity, not just for the moment, but also for the future. It’s about protecting your environment as much as it is about addressing the current crisis.

On the flip side, you might think it’s a good idea to take matters into your own hands, like trying to arrest the offender yourself or just waiting until the shift ends to file a report. Let’s be honest—these options can quickly escalate the situation or even complicate things further. Engaging in a physical confrontation can put not only your life at risk but also that of your colleagues and innocent bystanders. It’s like playing with fire—you’re bound to get burned.

It’s essential to remember that security personnel are not law enforcement officers. Your role is to observe, report, and ensure the safety of people within your area. Think of it as a partner in a dance; your job is to facilitate and create the right environment, but you shouldn’t take the lead into unknown territory without the pros.

So here’s the bottom line: When a crime occurs, the responsible action is to reach out to the police immediately. It ensures that the incident gets the attention it deserves, allowing for thorough handling by those trained to protect and serve. Next time you’re faced with a decision in a critical situation, prioritize safety and professionalism by picking up that phone. You’ll be glad you did!