New Brunswick Security Guard License Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of conducting regular patrols?

1. To maintain a schedule

2. To deter criminal activity

3. To carry on personal conversations

4. To take personal breaks

The correct answer is: To deter criminal activity

The primary purpose of conducting regular patrols is to deter criminal activity. When security personnel patrol an area frequently, their presence serves as a visible deterrent to potential criminals. The understanding that a security guard is actively monitoring the location can lead individuals with malintent to reconsider their actions, as the likelihood of being caught increases with a proactive security presence. In addition to deterring crime, regular patrols also allow security personnel to observe and report any suspicious activities or potential hazards, thereby enhancing the overall safety of the environment they are responsible for. The visibility of patrols can foster a sense of security among staff, customers, and the general public, contributing to a safer atmosphere. This proactive approach is fundamental in the role of security guards, emphasizing prevention and response over simply monitoring events as they occur. The other options do not relate to the primary objectives of conducting patrols; maintaining a schedule is a secondary consideration and does not inherently serve a protective function, while personal conversations and breaks distract from the critical task of ensuring safety and security.