Nova Scotia Security Guard License Practice Exam

What should be the first course of action for a security guard upon encountering a threat?

1. Engage physically with the suspect

2. Call for backup and assess the situation

3. Leave the area immediately

4. Attempt to negotiate with the suspect

The correct answer is: Call for backup and assess the situation

The first course of action for a security guard encountering a threat is to call for backup and assess the situation. This approach is essential as it prioritizes the safety of the security guard and the individuals around them. Assessing the situation allows for a better understanding of the nature and level of the threat, helping to make informed decisions about next steps. Calling for backup ensures that additional support is available to handle the situation effectively. This is particularly important in volatile situations where the threat level is high, and the security guard may not be able to manage the situation alone. Having backup not only increases safety but also can deter potential harm from escalating. Immediate engagement with a suspect, leaving the area without taking action, or attempting negotiation can lead to complications. Engaging physically can escalate the situation, putting both the guard and others in danger. Leaving the area might seem safe, but it neglects the responsibility of managing the threat and could allow the situation to worsen. Negotiation requires skill and may not be appropriate if the suspect is aggressive or armed. Therefore, calling for backup and assessing the situation is the most strategic and safety-focused initial action.