Virginia DCJS Security Officer Practice Exam 2026 - Free Security Officer Practice Questions and Study Guide

The first step a security officer should take in an emergency is to ensure their own safety before assisting others or taking action. This principle is grounded in the fundamental notion that a security officer must be in a safe position to effectively respond to an emergency. If the officer becomes a victim, they cannot fulfill their responsibilities, which could exacerbate the situation and put others at greater risk.

Ensuring personal safety allows the officer to assess the situation more effectively and make informed decisions about how to help others while minimizing further danger. Moreover, a clear-headed and safe officer is better equipped to evaluate the needs of the situation, provide assistance, and communicate with emergency services if necessary. This approach aligns with many emergency response protocols that emphasize personal safety as a priority before acting to assist others.

In contrast, contacting law enforcement, evacuating people, or assuming control of the situation are actions that rely on the officer being in a safe environment. If an officer is not safe, these actions may lead to confusion, additional risk, or being unable to assist those in need.