South Carolina Security Guard Practice Exam

A security guard receives a dispatch from a remote monitoring company that indicates an intrusion alarm was received. What steps should the security guard take?

1. Ask the dispatcher for all relevant information. When you arrive approach cautiously and investigate the apparent cause of the alarm. Call the police if necessary. Submit a report.

2. Call the police and wait till they arrive

3. Do not enter as you are not insured as a security guard

4. Send another security guard for back up.

The correct answer is: Ask the dispatcher for all relevant information. When you arrive approach cautiously and investigate the apparent cause of the alarm. Call the police if necessary. Submit a report.

The correct answer is "Ask the dispatcher for all relevant information. When you arrive approach cautiously and investigate the apparent cause of the alarm. Call the police if necessary. Submit a report." In such a situation, the first step a security guard should take is to gather as much information as possible about the occurrence. The dispatcher would be the primary source of such information since they signalled the intrusion alarm. The information the guard gathers would guide their next steps, specifying where exactly they should direct their attention when they get to the site. It is also important for the security guard to approach the scene cautiously. This keeps them safe, minimizes the risk of startling potential intruders, and preserves the integrity of possible criminal evidence. In situations where the security guard deems it necessary, they should call the police. For example, they may discover that there has indeed been a break-in, or they may require assistance in investigating the issue. Security guards have a responsibility for safety and security, but not the same powers as law enforcement. Finally, the security guard is required to submit a report. A written record of the incident is essential in documenting what has transpired, what steps were taken, and any findings or results from the investigation. This aids in