Nevada Private Security Guard Practice Exam

What should a security guard do if they encounter a suspicious package?

1. Open the package to inspect its contents

2. Leave the package alone and notify the authorities

3. Ask bystanders if it belongs to them

4. Take the package home for examination

The correct answer is: Leave the package alone and notify the authorities

When a security guard encounters a suspicious package, the appropriate action is to leave the package alone and notify the authorities. This approach is based on safety protocols designed to prevent potential harm. Opening a suspicious package could lead to dangerous situations, including exposure to harmful substances or explosives. By leaving it alone, the guard minimizes risk to themselves and others. Notifying the authorities ensures that trained professionals can assess the situation appropriately. They have the expertise and equipment necessary to handle potential threats safely. This response also allows for the area to be secured and evacuated if necessary, further protecting bystanders. Asking bystanders if the package belongs to them may not provide a reliable indication of safety, as it could lead to misjudgments and might not take into account the package's contents or behavior. Taking the package home for examination is not only unsafe but also highly inadvisable, as it removes the package from a controlled environment where professionals can deal with it effectively. Therefore, the correct procedure emphasizes safety and effective communication with authorities.