Nevada Private Security Guard Practice Exam

Under what circumstances is a security guard allowed to use force?

1. Only when making an arrest

2. Only in self-defense or to protect others from imminent harm

3. Whenever they feel threatened

4. To prevent someone from leaving a property

The correct answer is: Only in self-defense or to protect others from imminent harm

A security guard is allowed to use force primarily in self-defense or to protect others from imminent harm. This guideline aligns with the principles of reasonable and necessary force, which emphasize that any action taken must be proportional to the threat encountered. In situations where a guard perceives an immediate threat to themselves or to another individual, they are justified in using force as a means of protection. This is grounded in the legal concept of self-defense, which permits individuals to defend themselves from harm without preemptively escalating a situation. Using force solely for making an arrest, as suggested in one of the other options, is more restrictive and typically requires a clear legal authority or mandate, often involving law enforcement officers rather than security personnel. Feelings of being threatened alone do not provide sufficient legal ground for the use of force; there needs to be an assessment of the threat's immediacy and severity. Additionally, preventing someone from leaving a property can lead to legal issues regarding unlawful detention or restraint, unless there is a clear and justifiable reason, such as stopping theft or a more severe security risk.