What to Do When You Witness a Crime as a Security Guard

When you're standing there, doing your security job, what’s the first thing that comes to mind if you see a crime unfold right before your eyes? Is it to jump in and try to handle it yourself? Or do you pick up that phone and notify the local law enforcement right away? If you said the latter, then you’re on the right track, my friend!

Let’s break it down: the primary responsibility of a security guard witnessing a crime in progress is, without a doubt, notifying the police immediately. Here’s the thing—law enforcement professionals are specially trained to manage criminal situations. When they’re alerted quickly, they get the chance to respond, which can spell the difference between chaos and control.

So, why’s it so important to call the cops instead of taking matters into your own hands? Well, think about it. Attempting to intervene when you aren’t trained for it can lead to serious injury—not just for you, but for others too. Besides, your job, as a security guard, is mainly to observe and report. If you were to try and step into the action, there’s a chance you might overreach your authority. And trust me, that’s a slippery slope leading to legal troubles for you and possibly your employer.

Now, imagine you see a mugging happening. It’s not just about the act itself. It’s the risk of injury involved. Responding quickly can really reduce that risk. You may wonder, “What if no one’s getting hurt?” It’s understandable to consider that, but ignoring it is a big no-no. Even if the incident seems victimless, your duty is to maintain the safety and security of the environment you’re responsible for. Failing to act can have long-term negative consequences.

Of course, documenting what you witnessed is crucial as well; we can’t forget about that. But documentation should come after you’ve made that important call to the police. In fact, considering that many incidents can escalate at the drop of a hat, your first action should always be ensuring the appropriate authorities are in the loop.

So, next time you face a situation where you witness a crime, remember: Notify local law enforcement immediately. It’s not just about following protocols; it’s about ensuring safety for everyone involved. With each call you make, you play a critical role in upholding the peace and protecting your community. And isn’t that what being a security guard is all about? Keeping everyone safe and sound.