6.2 — Identifying Potential Emergencies
Security guards must be able to identify and prepare for the following types of emergencies:
Fire EmergenciesStructure fires, electrical fires, kitchen fires.
Bomb Emergencies and Bomb ThreatsVerbal, written, or electronic threats.
Weapon EmergenciesArmed individuals, active threats.
Suspicious Packages and Explosive DevicesAny unattended or suspicious item.
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, severe weather, flooding, tornados.
Medical EmergenciesHeart attacks, strokes, injuries, overdoses.
Chemical Spills and Hazardous Material IncidentsSpills, leaks, or releases of dangerous substances.
Active Threat SituationsActive assailant, hostage situations.
Utility FailuresPower outages, gas leaks, water main breaks.
6.3 — Emergency Response Procedures
Fire Emergency Response — RACE
R
RescueRemove anyone in immediate danger (if safe to do so).
A
AlarmActivate the fire alarm and call 911.
C
ContainClose doors and windows to contain smoke and fire spread.
E
Extinguish / EvacuateExtinguish the fire if small and safe to do so, or evacuate the building.
Bomb Emergency Response
- Types of threats: Verbal (telephone), written (letter, email), electronic (text, social media).
- When receiving a bomb threat by phone: stay calm, keep the caller talking, note exact words, background sounds, and caller characteristics.
- Notify supervisor and police immediately.
- Conduct a systematic search only if trained and directed to do so.
6.4 — Fire Safety
The Fire Triangle
Fire requires three elements: heat, fuel, and oxygen. Removing any one of these elements will extinguish the fire.
Heat
Fuel
Oxygen
Classes of Fire
Class AOrdinary combustibles — wood, paper, cloth, plastics.
Class BFlammable liquids and gases — gasoline, oil, paint, propane.
Class CElectrical equipment — energized wiring, motors, appliances.
Class DCombustible metals — magnesium, titanium, sodium.
Class KCooking oils and fats — commercial kitchen fires.
Fire Extinguisher Use — PASS Technique
P
PullPull the pin.
A
AimAim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
S
SqueezeSqueeze the handle.
S
SweepSweep from side to side at the base of the fire.
6.5 — Evacuation Procedures
- Evacuation Plan Fundamentals — Know the evacuation routes, assembly points, and your assigned responsibilities.
- Floor Warden and Sweep Team Roles — Ensure all areas are cleared and report to the incident commander.
- Headcount Procedures — Account for all personnel at the assembly point.
- Assisting Persons with Disabilities — Be prepared to assist individuals with mobility, visual, or hearing impairments.
- Accountability at Assembly Points — Report any missing persons to emergency services.
- All-Clear Procedures — Do not re-enter the building until the all-clear is given by the incident commander or fire department.
- Re-Entry Authorization — Only the fire department or designated authority can authorize re-entry.
6.6 — Emergency Tools and Equipment
Fire extinguishers (know locations and types)
Sprinkler systems
First aid kits
AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
Communication equipment (two-way radios, cellular phones)
Emergency lighting and illuminated exit signage
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
6.7 — Scene Management
- Securing the Scene — Establish control to prevent further harm.
- Establishing a Perimeter — Use barriers, caution tape, or physical presence.
- Controlling Access for Emergency Services — Direct emergency responders to the scene efficiently.
- Providing Details to First Responders — Brief emergency services on the situation, hazards, and victims.
- Evidence Preservation — Do not disturb the scene; protect evidence for investigators.
- Crowd Management — Keep bystanders away from the emergency area.
6.8 — Duty of Care
Duty of care refers to what a reasonable person should do in a particular situation. For security guards, this includes:
- Taking appropriate action to protect life and property.
- Properly securing and protecting a crime scene until appropriate personnel arrive.
- Providing first aid when trained and able to do so.
- Understanding liability considerations — failure to act appropriately can result in legal consequences.
6.9 — Post-Emergency Procedures
- Incident Documentation — Complete detailed written reports.
- Debriefing — Participate in post-incident review with supervisors and team.
- Evidence Preservation — Ensure all physical and digital evidence is secured.
- Witness Statements — Collect statements from witnesses as soon as possible.
- Counselling and Support — Seek and encourage access to employee assistance programs.
- After-Action Review — Analyze the response to identify lessons learned and improve procedures.
6.10 — Module 6 Review Questions
Test your understanding of Module 6. The correct answer for each question is highlighted.
1. What does RACE stand for in fire emergency response?
- A.Run, Alert, Call, Exit
- B.Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish/Evacuate
- C.Report, Assess, Control, Evaluate
- D.React, Alarm, Close, Escape
2. What should you do if you find a suspicious package?
- A.Open it to determine if it is a threat
- B.Move it outside the building
- C.Do not touch it; evacuate the area and notify police
- D.Place it in a garbage bin
3. Which class of fire involves electrical equipment?
- A.Class A
- B.Class B
- C.Class C
- D.Class D
4. What three elements make up the fire triangle?
- A.Water, wind, and fire
- B.Heat, fuel, and oxygen
- C.Flame, smoke, and gas
- D.Spark, chemical, and pressure
5. Who has the authority to give the "all-clear" for re-entry after a building evacuation?
- A.The security guard on duty
- B.The building owner or tenant
- C.The fire department or designated authority
- D.Any employee in the building