Michigan Security Guard Licensing Practice Test

What is an appropriate action for a security guard who witnesses a violation of the law?

1. Confront the individual directly

2. Document the incident and report it to law enforcement

3. Ask other security personnel for their opinion

4. Ignore it unless it escalates

The correct answer is: Document the incident and report it to law enforcement

When a security guard witnesses a violation of the law, the most effective and responsible course of action is to document the incident and report it to law enforcement. This approach ensures that the situation is handled appropriately and within the legal framework. Documenting the incident provides a clear record of what occurred, including important details such as time, location, description of the individuals involved, and any actions taken. This documentation can be crucial for law enforcement in understanding the context and details of the violation. Reporting to law enforcement allows trained professionals to take appropriate action based on their authority and expertise. Security guards have a duty to maintain safety and order, but they are not law enforcement officers and typically do not have the same powers or training to intervene directly. Therefore, relying on law enforcement helps ensure that the situation is addressed legally and safely. Other actions might seem reasonable in some contexts, but they lack the effectiveness and safety assurance that comes with involving law enforcement. For example, confronting the individual directly could escalate the situation, while asking colleagues for their opinions could delay necessary action. Ignoring the violation altogether is counterproductive and potentially allows further unlawful behavior.