What Should a Security Guard Do When Witnessing a Crime in Progress?

You Just Saw a Crime—What’s Your Move?

As a security guard, you’re often the first line of defense against incidents that unfold before your eyes. But when that incident is a crime in progress, you’ve got to pause and think: what do you do? Right? Let’s dig into this real-world scenario that could be as tense as it sounds.

The Situation at Hand

Picture this: you’re on your shift, casually monitoring the area, when you suddenly spot someone breaking into a car. Your heart races—adrenaline kicks in. Your instinct might urge you to jump right in. But wait, hold up! The most crucial step here is to contact law enforcement immediately.

Why, you ask? Well, here’s the deal. Law enforcement professionals are trained to handle these situations. They have the knowledge, the authority, and let’s not forget, the backup. That’s right—the cavalry is coming! You, on the other hand, might end up in a precarious situation if you decide to intervene directly.

Timing Is Everything

So, what happens if you hesitate? If you think, “I’ll just gather some evidence first” or “I can handle this myself”? Delaying might allow the situation to spiral out of control. What if the suspect notices you and decides to flee? Or worse, what if things escalate and you get hurt?

By contacting law enforcement right away, you’re doing yourself and everyone else a favor. It’s about keeping the scene secure, ensuring your own safety, and helping professionals who know how to manage these high-pressure instances. Think of law enforcement as your support squad!

A Quick Snapshot of Responsibilities

Let’s break it down. Here are the steps a security guard should follow when witnessing a crime:

• Stay Calm: Take a deep breath before acting. Panic won’t help anyone.
• Contact Law Enforcement: Use your radio or phone without delay. Provide them with details—what’s happening, where it’s happening, and any descriptions of the suspect. The quicker you do this, the higher the chances are for a resolution.
• Avoid Confrontation: It’s tempting to play the hero, but remember that confronting a suspect could put you in harm’s way. After all, that’s a recipe for disaster!
• Preserve Evidence: While you shouldn’t intervene, keeping the scene intact is vital for law enforcement. If it’s safe to do so, note critical details, but don't put yourself at risk.

Legal Say What?

You might be wondering how not calling the police could come back to bite you. The truth is, handling the situation without law enforcement could expose you to legal risks. If your actions inadvertently escalate a situation or result in injury, you could face consequences. Yikes! It’s always better to stick to your training and standards.

Final Thoughts: Becoming a Pro in Crisis Management

Being a security guard isn’t just about watching over property; it’s about being prepared for the unexpected. Knowing what to do when you witness a crime will not only protect you but could also be the key to a quick and safe resolution.

In the grand scope of things, following protocol reflects professionalism. You’re standing at the forefront of safety, and making the right call can lead to justice being served. So, the next time a crime flashes before your eyes, remember: when in doubt, reach out to law enforcement—because your safety, and those around you, is what really matters.