What Should a Security Guard Do If They Feel Unsafe on Duty?

When you’re on shift as a security guard, the last thing you want is to find yourself in a position that feels unsafe. But the reality is that these situations can arise without warning. So, what’s the best move? Should you confront the threat? Maybe get a buddy on the line for advice? Well, let’s break it down.

Safety First—Always

Imagine you’re on duty, and suddenly you sense something’s off. Maybe it’s an altercation nearby, or perhaps you’re dealing with a belligerent individual. In moments like these, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety. According to industry standards, if you ever feel your well-being is compromised, the most appropriate course of action is to remove yourself from that situation and report to your supervisor.

Why? Because your safety is paramount. Think of it as putting your oxygen mask on first before helping others. If you’re not safe, how can you ensure the safety of others around you?

Assess the Situation from a Safe Distance

Once you’ve stepped away, you can reassess the environment without the immediate threat weighing down on you. This isn’t about being cowardly or avoiding confrontation; rather, it’s about making informed decisions in high-stakes situations.

While it can be tempting to confront the threat directly, consider this: Can you effectively handle whatever might happen next? Are you trained for that particular encounter? Chances are, your instincts are telling you to get to safety for a reason. And if that reason is a gut feeling that tells you danger is present, then by all means, listen to it!

Report the Incident

After you’ve distanced yourself from the potential harm, it’s time to put that phone to good use. Reporting to your supervisor is crucial not only for your safety but also for the safety of your colleagues and anyone else who might be impacted by the situation.

Your supervisor can take appropriate action—whether that means contacting law enforcement, revisiting security protocols, or even reinforcing measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. In this way, you’re not only protecting yourself but also contributing to a safer work environment for everyone.

Emphasis on Training and Protocols

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the training that underpins all of this. Security protocols emphasize situational awareness and proper reporting. And there’s a good reason for that!

In training sessions, security personnel learn that behavioral cues, environmental red flags, and gut instincts can often indicate a risk. Understanding these signs can empower guards to act (or not act) decisively when situations escalate. It’s all about cultivating a safety-first mentality and developing the skills to handle these daunting moments.

It’s Not Just About You

Feeling unsafe isn’t just a personal issue—it can ripple out to impact others. By stepping back, you not only safeguard your well-being but also create a position of strength from which the situation can be better managed. It’s like being the anchor in a storm: you may not always be the one steering the ship, but your stability ensures everyone is safer in turbulent waters.

In those tense moments, it’s easy to feel the pressure to act, but remember: besides your instincts, you have protocols for a reason. Weighing the risks, seeking back-up, and communicating effectively can make all the difference.

Final Thoughts:

Security is no joke, and every guard should feel empowered to step away from danger and report. Whether it's during training or in the heat of the moment, internalizing these protocols can help you feel ready for whatever comes your way.

In a nutshell, when the situation gets dicey, keep these steps in mind. Your safety truly does come first, and taking effective action can turn a precarious situation into a manageable one. It’s all in a day’s work, and you’ve got the skills to handle it!