How should a security officer respond to fire alarms?

When a security officer responds to fire alarms, the appropriate action is to follow evacuation procedures and assist in getting people to safety. This is crucial because fire alarms indicate a potentially serious situation that requires immediate action.

By following established evacuation procedures, the security officer ensures that the building occupants are guided to safety in a systematic and organized manner, minimizing confusion and panic. Assisting individuals, especially those who may need help, such as the elderly or disabled, fosters a safe environment and ensures that everyone can exit the building efficiently.

While other responses might seem reasonable, ignoring alarms can lead to dangerous consequences if there is indeed a fire. Attempting to extinguish the fire first could put the officer and occupants in unnecessary danger, particularly if they are not trained to handle such situations. Additionally, calling 911 from a safe location, although essential, is not the immediate priority. The safety and evacuation of individuals should come first in the response protocol to a fire alarm. Therefore, the correct response is to ensure that all occupants are evacuated while adhering to safety procedures.