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

What action should a security guard take upon observing a crime in progress?

• A. Intervene immediately to stop the crime
• B. Call law enforcement and do not intervene
• C. Document the crime for future reporting
• D. Ignore it unless it threatens their safety

Answer: (B)

When a security guard observes a crime in progress, the most appropriate action is to call law enforcement and refrain from intervening. This choice prioritizes the safety of the security guard and others present. Directly intervening in a crime can escalate the situation, potentially resulting in injury or harm to the guard or bystanders, especially if the crime involves violence or armed individuals. By contacting the police, the security guard ensures that trained professionals are dispatched to handle the situation. This allows for a more effective and safer resolution as law enforcement agencies have the resources and authority to manage criminal activities. Additionally, documenting the details of the crime accurately is vital for future investigations and legal proceedings, but this is typically done after notifying authorities, not as the primary action. Although documenting the crime is important, it should not take precedence over alerting law enforcement when an immediate response is required. Ignoring the incident poses a risk, particularly if the crime escalates, and intervening without support can lead to unnecessary risks. Thus, reporting the crime is a critical step, ensuring that appropriate action can be taken efficiently and safely.

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!