Handling Drug Use as a Security Guard: What You Need to Know

You are security on patrol and you see person smoking marijuana on the property outside the east doors. What would be the best course of action?

• A. Arrest the male, seize the marijuana and call your police
• B. Take the marijuana from the male and turn over it over the police
• C. You have no authority to arrest for or seize the drugs. You should ask the person to leave the premises for conducting prohibited activity.
• D. Contact the police and await for a search warrant

Answer: (C)

The correct answer is to exercise your authority to ask the person to leave the premises for conducting prohibited activity. In the situation where a security guard encounters someone using drugs on the property they are monitoring, the guard does not hold the same powers as a police officer. A security guard cannot legally arrest someone or seize drugs. Their main role is to observe and report, while maintaining the safety and security of the property. Thus, the security guard can ask the person to leave the premises due to their conduct of a prohibited activity. If the person refuses to leave or becomes aggressive, the appropriate response would be to report the incident to police. It's also essential for the guard to document the situation for their records and for any possible further inspection.

As a budding security professional in Ontario, you're on the front lines of maintaining safety and order. But what happens when you find someone smoking marijuana outside the property? It's a situation that can easily catch you off guard—pun intended! So, let’s break this down with a lighthearted yet informative approach. Your reaction can actually affect safety and legal outcomes, so here’s the scoop.

First, remember that your powers aren’t the same as those wielded by police officers. You may hold a badge, but don’t think of yourself as a cop just yet! Your primary role is to observe and report, ensuring the safety of the premises while respecting the law. If you see someone using drugs, like our friend smoking marijuana, don’t jump to conclusions.

Now, here’s the million-dollar question: what should you do? The best course of action is actually to ask the person to leave the premises. I know, I know—it might feel like you're letting them get away with something, but bear with me. You’re not a police officer and you don’t have the authority to make arrests or seize drugs. This doesn't mean you're powerless, though!

So if you observe a violation, politely approach and inform the individual that their activity is prohibited. A simple, “Hey there, I need to ask you to leave the property due to your activity” usually works wonders. Sometimes, people don’t even realize they’re breaking the rules. Make sure to document what’s happening, as this will help you if anything escalates.

And, let’s be real—what happens if they decide to ignore you? Or worse, if they become aggressive? In that case, you should contact local law enforcement. It might be a good idea to have their number on speed dial. It's also essential to keep a record of the incident. Not only does this protect you, but it helps maintain a comprehensive overview of what's happening on your watch.

To recap, maintain calm and act with authority—consider it your security guard superpower! You’re the eyes on the ground, keeping things in check without needing to flex too hard. Your responsibility is to maintain safety while respecting your legal limits. Knowing how to navigate these sticky situations will set you apart when taking your Ontario Security Guard License Exam.

So, ready to tackle your exam prep? Understanding the foundational aspects of your role will not only help you pass the test but also flourish in your career as a security guard. Just remember—we’re all human here; every situation is a learning opportunity. Equip yourself with knowledge, stay alert, and approach your duties with confidence. You got this!