British Columbia (BC) Security Guard License Practice Exam

What is the appropriate action if security personnel encounter a crime in progress?

1. Intervene immediately

2. Notify the police and avoid confrontation

3. Record details and leave the scene

4. Try to resolve the conflict peacefully

The correct answer is: Notify the police and avoid confrontation

The appropriate action for security personnel when encountering a crime in progress is to notify the police and avoid confrontation. This approach prioritizes safety for both the security personnel and any bystanders. Security personnel are typically not law enforcement officers, so intervening directly can escalate the situation and potentially lead to injury or other negative consequences. By contacting the police, security personnel ensure that trained law enforcement professionals respond to the incident. This is critical because the police have the authority, training, and resources necessary to handle criminal situations effectively and safely. Meanwhile, maintaining a safe distance helps avoid direct conflict and protects everyone involved. Recording details of the incident can be valuable for law enforcement, but it should not come at the expense of personal safety or the safety of others. Trying to resolve conflicts peacefully can be appropriate in some contexts, but in the face of a crime in progress, the priority must always be to engage the right authorities while ensuring personal safety.