Oregon Security Guard Certification Practice Exam

What should a security guard do if they encounter a potentially dangerous situation?

1. Immediately call for backup

2. Assess the situation and prioritize their safety and the safety of others

3. Engage with the individual causing the danger

4. Evacuate the premises without assessing

The correct answer is: Assess the situation and prioritize their safety and the safety of others

When encountering a potentially dangerous situation, a security guard should prioritize the assessment of the situation while ensuring their own safety and the safety of others. This means gathering as much information as possible about the circumstances before taking any further action. Understanding the nature of the threat can help the guard make informed decisions on the best course of action, whether that involves calling for backup or managing the situation in another way. By first assessing the situation, the guard can determine the level of risk involved and decide if immediate intervention is necessary, or if it’s safer to wait for law enforcement or additional security personnel to arrive. This approach minimizes potential harm and allows for a more tactical response rather than acting impulsively. Other actions, such as calling for backup or evacuating, are important but should come after an assessment of the situation. Engaging directly with the individual causing the danger can escalate the situation and should generally be avoided unless absolutely necessary. Starting with an assessment creates a foundation for a more effective response to incidents.