North Dakota Security Guard Practice Exam

What is an appropriate response for a security guard in an active shooter situation?

1. Evacuate if safe, hide if necessary, and call 911

2. Charge towards the shooter

3. Wait for assistance before acting

4. Take a defensive position only

The correct answer is: Evacuate if safe, hide if necessary, and call 911

In an active shooter situation, the most appropriate response for a security guard is to evacuate if it is safe to do so, hide if evacuation is not possible, and call 911 to report the incident. This response aligns with established protocols for handling such emergencies. Evacuation should be prioritized when circumstances allow, as leaving the area can significantly reduce the risk of harm. If evacuation is unsafe due to proximity to the shooter, finding a secure location to hide is critical in order to avoid detection. Making a call to 911 is essential for alerting law enforcement to the incident, which can lead to a faster response and potentially save lives. Charging towards the shooter can increase the risk of harm not only to the guard but also to others in the vicinity. Waiting for assistance before taking action can lead to delays that may not be in the best interest of those in danger. Similarly, taking only a defensive position without actively seeking to either enable safe evacuation or alert authorities may not effectively mitigate the threat. Overall, adopting a proactive and situationally aware approach by prioritizing evacuation, hiding, and communication enhances the likelihood of maintaining safety for oneself and others present.