Texas Security Guard License Practice Exam

Which action should be taken first when encountering a suspicious person?

1. Immediately call the police

2. Approach the person to ask questions

3. Maintain distance and assess the situation calmly

4. Ignore and move on

The correct answer is: Maintain distance and assess the situation calmly

Maintaining distance and assessing the situation calmly is the most prudent first step when encountering a suspicious person. This approach allows for a careful evaluation of the individual’s behavior and environment without putting yourself or others in immediate danger. By keeping a safe distance, you can observe the person's actions and determine whether they pose a threat. This also gives you time to consider your options and gather additional information before deciding on the best course of action. If the situation warrants it, once you have assessed the risk, you could involve law enforcement or take other appropriate measures. The other actions, such as immediately calling the police or approaching the person, can escalate the situation or lead to misinterpretation of behaviors that may not be threatening. Ignoring the situation entirely doesn’t allow for a proper assessment, which could lead to potential safety risks. Therefore, a calm and informed assessment is essential for ensuring the safety of everyone involved.