What should a security guard prioritize when responding to an incident?

When responding to an incident, a security guard should prioritize assessing the situation quickly. This is crucial because an initial assessment enables the guard to understand the nature and severity of the incident, identify any immediate dangers, and determine the best course of action.

A rapid evaluation helps in making informed decisions, such as whether to intervene directly, call for backup, or notify law enforcement. By accurately assessing the situation, security personnel can also prioritize the safety of themselves and others, which is fundamental to their role.

In contrast, while documenting details is important, it should occur after an initial assessment. Communicating with colleagues can be beneficial but it should ideally happen after the situation is understood. Altering evidence is contrary to legal and ethical standards and should never be a priority in any situation.