Oregon Security Guard Certification Practice Exam

What should a security guard do if they witness a crime?

1. Confront the criminal by themselves

2. Call law enforcement and report the incident

3. Ignore it unless it escalates

4. Only inform their supervisor

The correct answer is: Call law enforcement and report the incident

When a security guard witnesses a crime, the most appropriate and responsible action is to call law enforcement and report the incident. This approach ensures that trained professionals can handle the situation effectively, maintaining safety for both the guard and the public. By notifying law enforcement, the guard aids in the swift response needed to address the crime, gather evidence, and protect potential victims who may be involved. Reporting the incident to law enforcement also ensures that an official record is created. This documentation can be critical in any subsequent legal proceedings or investigations. Additionally, law enforcement officers have the expertise and authority to take necessary actions that a security guard is not equipped to undertake, such as arresting suspects or managing the scene. Confronting a criminal alone can put the guard in danger and may escalate the situation. Ignoring the situation until it escalates poses risks to others and could result in the guard being held accountable for not acting responsibly. Simply informing a supervisor may not be sufficient in urgent situations where immediate action is required, and it’s essential that the relevant authorities are called directly.