West Virginia Security Guard Practice Exam 2025 - Free Security Guard Practice Questions and Study Guide

A security guard operates with limited authority, which typically includes the ability to detain individuals for a short period until law enforcement can take over. This authority is essential as it enables security guards to manage situations that may pose a threat to safety or security while also respecting legal boundaries.

This limited authority means that guards are not law enforcement officers and do not have the same powers or responsibilities. Their primary role is to observe, report, and intervene within the scope of their training and company policies. By being able to detain individuals temporarily, they can prevent further incidents and ensure that a proper investigation by law enforcement can occur upon their arrival.

Understanding this limited authority is crucial for security guards, as it helps them to operate effectively within legal parameters and maintain safety without overstepping their bounds. This distinction also informs them on how to approach their duties and interact with both the public and law enforcement in various scenarios.