New Brunswick Security Guard License Practice Exam

What action should a guard take upon discovering suspicious unattended items?

1. Handle the item carefully to inspect it

2. Leave it alone and ignore it

3. Evacuate the area and notify authorities

4. Move the item to a secure location

The correct answer is: Evacuate the area and notify authorities

When a guard discovers suspicious unattended items, the appropriate action is to evacuate the area and notify authorities. This response is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, unattended items can potentially pose a threat, such as being a bomb or containing hazardous materials. By evacuating the area, the guard ensures the safety of themselves and others nearby, minimizing the risk of injury or panic should the item prove to be dangerous. Secondly, notifying authorities is essential because they have the training and resources to handle such situations safely and effectively. Security personnel are not typically equipped to assess or neutralize hazardous materials or explosive devices; thus, it is crucial to involve professionals who can manage the situation appropriately. This course of action keeps all individuals safe while allowing trained authorities to investigate the unattended item thoroughly. The other choices presented could lead to unnecessary risks, such as handling a dangerous item or ignoring it altogether.