What should a security guard do if they observe a legal infraction?

When a security guard observes a legal infraction, the appropriate course of action is to report it to the appropriate authorities immediately. This response is based on the responsibility of security personnel to uphold the law and maintain safety in their environment. By reporting the infraction, the security guard ensures that trained law enforcement or relevant authorities can take the necessary actions to address the situation effectively.

Reporting also helps create a record of the incident, which can be crucial for any investigations that may follow. This process also protects the security guard from potential liability that could arise from taking matters into their own hands.

Handling the situation by ignoring it or confronting the individual directly can escalate tensions and potentially lead to dangerous situations, putting both the security guard and others at risk. Documenting the incident for later consideration might lead to delays in appropriate action being taken, undermining the importance of swift reporting in legal matters. Thus, immediate reporting aligns with professional standards and enhances overall public safety.