What Security Guards Should Do When Facing a Trespasser

As a security guard, your job is to ensure the safety and security of the environment you’re tasked with protecting. You know what? When you encounter a trespasser, the stakes can be high—not just for you, but for everyone involved. So, what should you do? Let’s break it down.

The First Step: Assess the Situation

When you spot a trespasser, the first thing you want to do is stay calm. Sounds simple, right? But remaining composed can make a world of difference in tense situations. Assess your surroundings, and ensure there’s no immediate threat before deciding on your next actions.

The Right Call: Involving Law Enforcement

Now, let’s get to the meat of it.

The best course of action when you encounter a trespasser is to call the police and wait for assistance. Why, you ask? Well, an incident involving a trespasser can escalate quickly, and having trained law enforcement personnel on the scene means you’re backed by real authority. Trust me; this isn’t just about following protocol; it’s about prioritizing safety.

When the police arrive, they can assess the situation better than anyone else. Their presence can deter a potential confrontation, and they’re skilled in handling tricky situations that could get out of hand. No one wants to end up in a physical altercation over someone who doesn't belong on the property, right?

Why Not Handle It Yourself?

Let’s talk about a couple of alternatives that might seem reasonable at first glance, like asking the trespasser to leave or even escorting them off the premises. Here’s the thing: while these actions may appear friendly and approachable, they can expose you to unnecessary risks.

Imagine a scenario where the trespasser refuses to comply or behaves aggressively. You might be stepping into a confrontation without backup, which is less than ideal. Prioritizing your safety (and that of others) means taking the risk out of the equation.

Documentation: Don’t Forget This Step

Now, you may be wondering about documentation. After all, recording incidents sounds important, right? Absolutely! Documenting an incident is crucial for legal and accountability reasons. You’ll want to maintain a clear log of what transpired that can serve you and the organization later on. However, keep in mind—this step is secondary to taking immediate action.

Balancing Safety and Accountability

So, how do you balance the need for documentation with the urgency of safety?

It’s all about timing. Once the police are on the scene and the immediate threat is handled, that’s your cue to write it down. Document who was present, what the trespasser did, and how the situation played out. This not only protects you but can help build a case if legal actions need to be taken later.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the best response to encountering a trespasser is to call the police and ensure your own safety first. Your role is primarily to observe and report, not to confront someone who could potentially turn aggressive.

Knowing the right steps to take in these situations can save everyone a whole lot of stress—and possibly even prevent a dangerous clash. And let’s be real: being a security guard isn’t just about wearing the uniform and having authority; it’s about ensuring peace of mind for everyone in your care, including yourself.

So next time you’re faced with a trespasser, remember to call the cops and let them handle it. You’ll be glad you did!