Oklahoma Security Guard Practice Exam

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

1. Report it to law enforcement and ensure public safety

2. Confront the suspect directly

3. Ignore it to avoid escalation

4. Call a friend for advice

The correct answer is: Report it to law enforcement and ensure public safety

When a security guard witnesses a crime in progress, the priority is to report it to law enforcement and ensure public safety. This approach aligns with the role of a security guard, which is to maintain safety and security within a designated area. By notifying law enforcement immediately, the guard facilitates a professional response to the crime, allowing trained officers to handle the situation appropriately. Additionally, ensuring public safety means assessing the immediate environment for potential hazards or risks to bystanders and taking measures to protect them. This could involve directing individuals away from the scene or providing basic assistance until law enforcement arrives. Confronting the suspect directly poses significant risks, as it could escalate the situation and endanger the guard, bystanders, or the suspect. Ignoring the crime is irresponsible and could lead to further criminal actions or injury. Seeking advice from a friend is not an appropriate response; the situation requires immediate action from trained professionals rather than personal input. Overall, prioritizing communication with law enforcement and safety is the most effective and responsible response.