What to Do as a Security Guard When Witnessing a Crime

When duty calls and you find yourself witnessing a crime in progress, what should you do? It's a question that every aspiring security guard should have firmly planted in their minds, especially those preparing for the Tennessee Security Guard exam. The answer is clear: your priority should be to call law enforcement and report the incident. Yes, you read that right—this course of action is not just advisable; it’s vital.

Why Call Law Enforcement?

First off, let’s lay it all out. You've got a responsibility to protect people and property. By notifying law enforcement, you’re engaging trained professionals who are prepared to handle these types of situations safely and effectively. Think about it—law enforcement has resources and training specifically designed to handle criminal activities. By facilitating their response, you may help apprehend suspects or prevent further harm to those directly involved. Plus, you can safely observe from a distance without putting yourself in harm's way. Excellent strategy, right?

Holding Off on Personal Intervention

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the urge to intervene personally. You might think, “Why not step in and stop the crime?” Well, here’s the thing: doing so can expose you to serious risks. Security personnel are trained to observe and report rather than engage in potentially violent confrontations. Imagine seeing a robbery unfold. Sure, your instinct may scream to act, but you need to recognize that your safety—and the safety of others—could quickly escalate into a dangerous situation.

Here’s a little story—let’s say you’re patrolling a shopping mall and you notice someone snatching a purse. If you rush in, all hero-style, you might end up as a target rather than a protector. It can spiral out of control faster than you think! By staying back and calling the authorities, you keep safety as your prime directive.

The Risks of Ignoring or Waiting

Now, let’s chat about the lesser-seen options: ignoring the event or waiting for it to end. Both choices may seem viable to some, but they undermine the essence of what it means to be a security guard. Ignoring the crime? That's like allowing a wound to fester without treatment. And waiting until the crime is over? Well, that’s a recipe for further criminal activity or harm to victims—not exactly part of the job description, right?

Your role as a security guard goes beyond just watching; it's about proactive engagement and ensuring safety. Quick and decisive actions can make a crucial difference in protecting the area you monitor.

The Bottom Line

In summary, when faced with a crime in progress, your best response as a security guard is to call law enforcement. It’s the path that aligns with your training and responsibilities while safeguarding your well-being and that of others. Remember, you’re the first line of defense, and how you respond can set the tone for how incidents are managed, often with lasting effects.

So, as you prepare for your Tennessee Security Guard exam and embrace your career, keep this mantra close: safety first, report with diligence, and leave the intervention to the trained pros. You’ve got this!