Washington State Security Guard License Practice Exam

If a security guard feels their safety is at risk, what should they do?

1. Confront the threat directly

2. Seek a safe location and call for assistance

3. Ignore the threat and continue their duties

4. Report the threat only after the shift ends

The correct answer is: Seek a safe location and call for assistance

In a situation where a security guard feels their safety is at risk, the appropriate action is to seek a safe location and call for assistance. This response is crucial because it prioritizes the guard's personal safety and well-being above all else. By moving to a safe location, the guard removes themselves from immediate danger, allowing them to assess the situation without the pressure of a direct threat. Calling for assistance ensures that trained professionals, such as law enforcement or emergency services, can handle the situation appropriately. This approach allows for the possibility of a safer resolution rather than escalating the scenario through confrontation. Additionally, responding to a threat in a proactive and strategic manner helps maintain a safe environment for other individuals in the vicinity. It is important for security personnel to recognize that their role includes ensuring not only their safety but also that of others. Ignoring a threat or confronting it directly could lead to escalation, potentially resulting in harm, while delaying a report until after the shift ends could jeopardize the safety of others involved in the incident.