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

When a security guard witnesses a crime occurring, the most appropriate action to take is to report it to local authorities. This response is grounded in the importance of ensuring that trained law enforcement professionals handle criminal situations. Security guards are typically not equipped or authorized to intervene directly in criminal activities, especially those that may pose a risk to their safety or the safety of others.

Reporting the incident allows for a swift and appropriate response from authorities who have the resources and training to handle such situations effectively. This ensures that the crime is documented and that the criminal can be apprehended through the proper legal channels. Furthermore, it helps maintain the safety of both the security guard and the general public by reducing the likelihood of escalating a potentially dangerous situation.

In circumstances where immediate intervention could be hazardous, taking notes about the crime is important, but it is not a substitute for contacting the authorities. Yelling for help may momentarily alert bystanders but does not provide a systematic approach to addressing the crime. Taking on the responsibility of stopping the crime themselves can lead to serious personal harm or complicate the situation, making the need for professional intervention even more critical.