What must a security guard maintain for their own safety?

Maintaining an awareness of surroundings and potential threats is crucial for a security guard's safety. This vigilance allows a security guard to identify unusual behaviors, potential dangers, or emergencies before they escalate. By being aware of the environment, a security guard can respond effectively to various situations, whether it involves preventing incidents, addressing suspicious activities, or ensuring the safety of the area they are tasked with monitoring.

This proactive approach to situational awareness not only enhances personal safety but also contributes to the overall security of the premises. Without this awareness, a guard may become vulnerable to unexpected threats or may miss critical signs that could indicate a security breach or emergency scenario.

The other options, while potentially beneficial in another context, do not focus on the immediate need for awareness and readiness in potentially dangerous situations that security guards often face on the job.