What to Do After a Minor Incident as a Security Guard

What Should a Security Guard Do After a Minor Incident?

Picture this: You’re on patrol, and you’ve just witnessed a minor scuffle outside a convenience store. It’s nothing serious — a bit of shoving and shouting — but it’s left you wondering, what’s the best course of action? Should you just forget about it because it seems trivial? Or is something more necessary? Well, let’s break it down.

In the world of security, every single incident — no matter how small — can have ripple effects. That’s where the idea of documentation comes into play.

Why Documenting is Key

Document the incident for future reference. That’s the golden rule here. Why? Well, here are a few compelling reasons:

1. Creating Clarity: Having a clear, detailed account of what just happened can save you (and your company) a lot of headaches down the line. Imagine the situation escalates, or someone claims it didn't happen at all. Your detailed notes could be the difference between clarity and chaos.

2. Handling Legal Matters: Minor incidents can sometimes morph into legal issues. By documenting what you witnessed, you create a record that can be invaluable for legal proceedings. This means you’re not just protecting yourself, but also your team and company.

3. Identifying Patterns: If similar incidents occur at the same location or involve the same individuals, your records can help identify patterns. This insight can inform better security strategies and training. Isn't it comforting to know you’re equipped with information rather than flying blind?

4. Promoting Accountability: Let’s face it — documenting incidents demonstrates professionalism. It assures the public and your colleagues that every incident is taken seriously. When guards keep logbooks, there’s a sense of accountability that permeates through the entire operation. Everyone feels more secure knowing it's not just business as usual.

What Not to Do

Now you might be thinking, “Okay, I get it. But what about the alternatives?” Well, let’s consider a few. Imagine if you chose to:

• Forget About It: Ignoring an incident can lead to bigger problems later. If someone gets the wrong idea about what happened, the absence of evidence could hamper your position.
• Blame the Person Involved: It can be tempting to shrug it off and point fingers, but this approach is dangerous. It damages trust — and trust is a cornerstone of successful security operations. You want your community to feel safe and that the guards are there to support, not to blame.
• Notify the Media for Publicity: This is usually a big no-no. While media involvement might seem like a good plan for publicity, it could turn into a nightmare. Unnecessary drama could sour relationships not just with those involved but also the community you serve.

The Path Forward

At the end of it all, prioritizing documentation isn’t just best practice; it's a commitment to safety, accountability, and communication. It’s how security professionals stand their ground and maintain trust in their capabilities. Every note you take, every incident you document, supports your training and responsibility. So, the next time you encounter a minor incident, remember: holding onto that pen and pad (or tablet) is more than just a bureaucratic hassle — it's your shield against potential pitfalls down the road.

So, where do you go from here? Keep learning, stay vigilant, and always make documentation part of your routine. After all, in this profession, knowledge truly is power.