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

When you’re out in the field, keeping an eye on your surroundings is second nature as a security guard. But what happens when you see a crime in progress? Your instincts might scream to intervene, but hold on a second—before making a snap decision, let’s unpack the best course of action here.

Stop, Look, and Listen (But Not Acting Right Away)

You know what? The first thing you should remember is that your safety, and the safety of others, comes first. It may seem tempting to jump in and stop the crime yourself, especially if it looks like someone is in trouble. But the harsh reality is that intervening can escalate a situation in unexpected ways—think about it, what if the individual involved is armed? Your impulse to be a hero could put you and others at risk. So, what should you do instead?

It’s Time to Call for Backup

Your best bet is to call law enforcement immediately and let them handle it. Seriously, they’re trained for this, and have the necessary resources and authority to deal with criminal activities safely and efficiently. By contacting the police, you’re ensuring that those who are trained to de-escalate situations are on their way, allowing you to maintain a safer environment for everyone.

While you wait for the authorities to arrive, take a moment to observe the scene. You might think, "But isn't that a lot to juggle?" It can be! However, documenting what you see—details like the description of the suspects, the time of the incident, and even vehicle descriptions—can play a crucial role later on. Yet, don’t let that take priority over alerting law enforcement. Documenting is essential, without a doubt, but your immediate priority is to ensure someone with proper authority is on the way.

Don’t Turn a Blind Eye – Just Don’t Rush In

On the flip side, ignoring an incident can also be incredibly risky. If it escalates or someone gets hurt, that could put you, and possibly other bystanders, in a tougher spot. You have an obligation not just to your employer but to the community you serve. Observing does not mean sitting idly by; it means being vigilant and ensuring safety while waiting for trained professionals to take over.

Final Thoughts: Be Smart, Stay Safe

To sum it up, witnessing a crime can rattle anyone’s nerves, but remember to prioritize safety and protocol. While it might feel heroic to dive in and intervene, relying instead on law enforcement not only boosts the chance for a safer resolution but also protects you and others involved. By maintaining composure and following established procedures, you can be a dedicated guardian of safety without putting yourself in harm's way.

So, as you prep for your Wisconsin security guard exam, keep this key point in mind: Your role is to observe, report, and stay safe. And if you ever find yourself in this scenario, just take a deep breath, contact law enforcement, and let the professionals handle it. You’ve got this!