What action should a guard take if they witness a crime?

When a guard witnesses a crime, the appropriate action is to document the incident without intervening. This approach is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures the safety of the guard and prevents escalation of the situation, which could endanger them or others. Engaging with suspects can lead to unpredictable outcomes and potential harm.

Documentation serves as an essential step in the incident response process. By recording details such as the time, location, description of suspects, and the nature of the crime, the guard provides accurate information that can aid law enforcement in their investigation. This information can be invaluable in building a case, identifying suspects, or understanding the context of the crime more comprehensively.

While calling for backup may be necessary in certain situations, the immediate focus should be on securing information about the crime. The other options, such as ignoring the crime or confronting suspects, can compromise the situation significantly. Therefore, prioritizing accurate documentation aligns with best practices in security protocols and ensures a professional response to any criminal activity observed.