Wisconsin Security Guard Practice Exam

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

1. Intervene immediately to stop the crime

2. Call law enforcement and do not intervene

3. Document the crime for future reporting

4. Ignore it unless it threatens their safety

The correct answer is: Call law enforcement and do not intervene

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.