What should a security guard do if they suspect a fire in the building?

When a security guard suspects a fire in a building, the immediate priority is the safety of all occupants. Evacuating the building calmly and calling the fire department ensures that trained professionals are alerted and can respond quickly to mitigate any danger. This action is critical because fires can spread rapidly, and delaying evacuation can put lives at risk.

Prioritizing a calm evacuation helps to prevent panic among the occupants, facilitating a more orderly exit and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to leave safely. The fire department's prompt notification is equally vital, as they have the resources and expertise to handle fires effectively.

Investigating the source of the smoke can be highly dangerous, as it may expose the guard to toxic smoke, flames, or other hazards. Even if the guard has training, entering a potentially hazardous area is not advisable when there are immediate risks to consider. Preparing to implement evacuation protocols might come after recognizing the fire, but the initial response should focus on leaving the premises and ensuring safety first. Ignoring the situation is the least responsible course of action, as it raises the risk of injury or property damage.