How to Respond to a Fire Alarm as a Security Guard

If there is a fire alarm on your site, what would be your best course of action?

• A. Evacuate everyone in an orderly fashion
• B. Call the fire department to confirm they are attending
• C. Refer to your emergency measures plan
• D. See if you can schedule your lunch break so you can watch all the fire trucks arrive

Answer: (C)

The correct answer is to refer to your emergency measures plan. This prioritizes safety and follows best practices and procedures. Every site or establishment should have an emergency measures plan, which includes detailed steps to respond to any emergency, including a fire. As a security guard, your role during a fire alarm would be guided by this plan. This could involve activating the building’s fire alarm system, calling the fire department, aiding in evacuation, or closing certain areas. Following the established emergency plan ensures you're helping in the most efficient and effective way during an emergency. The suggestion of evacuating everyone in an orderly fashion or calling the fire department could be part of the plan, but these actions should not be assumed and taken out of turn. It's important to follow the emergency plan to ensure all the necessary actions are taken and none are missed.

When the fire alarm goes off, what do you do? If you’re a security guard, this question isn’t just hypothetical; it could be a matter of life and death. While some folks might think about how to exit the building or perhaps even wonder if they could sneak a peek at the fire trucks arriving, the reality is a lot more serious. You need to focus on following your emergency measures plan!

Let me explain why this is crucial. The emergency measures plan is essentially your blueprint for action in any crisis. It outlines specific steps to take when that alarm blares. So, if you’re unsure what to do, just think about those guidelines. They’re designed to prioritize safety and ensure everyone knows their role in case of an emergency.

Now, you might be thinking, “What if I just assume we should all evacuate right away?” Well, that’s a common thought! However, while evacuating everyone in an orderly fashion sounds like a good idea, it might not be the best first move. Your priority is to refer to your established emergency plan. This could involve a few different actions:

1. Activating the Building’s Alarm System: This might seem redundant if the alarm's already ringing, but in some situations, you'll need to confirm protocols.

2. Calling the Fire Department: Sometimes, it's part of the protocol to notify them. But again, this is where the emergency measures plan guides you.

3. Leading an Evacuation: In most cases, aiding in evacuating staff and visitors is vital, but there’s an order to it. Don’t jump the gun; ensure you’re moving based on what your plan stipulates.

You see, the misconception is that a guard’s role ends with making a dash for the exit. In fact, it can involve closing specific areas, guiding people calmly, and checking the locations of visitors or staff who may need assistance.

So, what happens if you do take it upon yourself to kick off an evacuation without checking your protocol? You might miss crucial steps, or worse, put someone in harm’s way because you didn’t follow the right measures. The truth is, a chaotic response during an emergency can lead to confusion and even panic, which is why preparedness is absolutely key.

To sum it up, always refer to your emergency measures plan during a fire alarm situation. Ensure you’re familiar with it and know your responsibilities inside and out. This approach doesn’t just keep everyone safe; it also positions you as a responsible, well-trained guard. You know what? Getting this right can make all the difference—not just for you, but for everyone relying on your vigilance and expertise. Remember, preparation is the best practice, and your calm demeanor in a chaotic situation creates a safer environment for all.