What should a security guard prioritize when encountering a suspicious situation?

In any security situation, particularly when encountering something suspicious, the priority should be on assessment and observation. This approach allows the security guard to gather vital information about the situation without escalating it unnecessarily. By carefully observing, the guard can determine the nature of the suspicious activity, identify potential threats, and evaluate the environment before taking any actions.

Prioritizing assessment helps ensure that the guard makes informed decisions based on facts rather than assumptions. For instance, observing the situation might reveal that the suspicious behavior is simply someone engaging in a benign activity that could easily be misinterpreted.

Taking time to assess also allows for the possibility of determining whether additional support is needed or if the situation can be addressed through communication. This method not only enhances the guard's situational awareness but also contributes to overall safety, both for the guard and for others in the vicinity.