How should a security guard respond when a fire alarm goes off?

When a fire alarm goes off, the appropriate response for a security guard is to evacuate the area and notify the fire department. This action prioritizes the safety of all individuals in the vicinity. In emergency situations such as a fire, immediate evacuation is critical to prevent injury or loss of life.

After ensuring that people are safely evacuated, notifying the fire department is vital to ensure professional assistance is on the way to address the emergency. Security guards are trained to facilitate the safe and orderly evacuation of people rather than attempting to determine the source of the alarm or silencing it, which could delay critical actions.

In situations involving a potential fire, waiting for instructions from a supervisor may lead to confusion and unnecessary delays, risking the safety of individuals who could be in danger. Checking for the source of the alarm could expose the guard to harm, as it may be a legitimate fire. Silencing the alarm could prevent individuals from taking necessary safety measures, creating a hazardous situation. Therefore, the most effective and life-saving response is to evacuate and notify emergency services promptly.