Handling Intoxicated Individuals: A Guide for Security Guards in Indiana

When it comes to security, not every day is routine. You know what? Sometimes, you might find yourself face-to-face with an intoxicated individual. And how you handle that situation can significantly impact everyone involved—yourself, the drunk person, and innocent bystanders. So, let’s break it down so you’re ready when the unexpected happens.

What’s the Best Move? Assessing the Risk

First things first—your primary responsibility as a security guard is safety. That doesn’t just mean your own safety; it means ensuring a secure environment for everyone around. When you encounter someone who’s had too much to drink, it’s essential to assess the risk involved.

Take a moment to evaluate the individual’s behavior. Are they calm, or are they loud and aggressive? What’s the vibe of the environment? Are people around you looking nervous? These observations are crucial. You can’t just charge in blindly because that could escalate things faster than you can say “security breach.”

Keep Your Distance but Stay Alert

Here’s the thing: maintaining safety often means positioning yourself in a way that allows you to observe without provoking the individual. It sounds easy enough, but it requires some finesse. If you can stand back and keep a watchful eye while waiting for the right moment to act, you’re doing it right.

Remember—your aim is to de-escalate, not incite. You wouldn’t want to poke a bear just because it looks sleepy, right? Similarly, approaching a drunken individual aggressively can lead to unwanted consequences for you and everyone around.

When to Call for Backup

Now, if you’ve assessed the situation and you feel like it might get hairy, it’s time to bring in the pros—law enforcement. If the individual poses a danger, calling the police is not just a smart move; it’s a responsible one. They’re trained to deal with intoxicated individuals and can intervene safely.

But why call for help if you think you can handle it? The reality is that as a security guard, you’re not a police officer. You’re not trained to manage aggressive or very intoxicated individuals on your own. Besides, having the police on site not only ensures professional intervention but also signals to others that the situation is being handled appropriately.

Ignoring and Leaving Aren’t Solutions

You might wonder, "What about just leaving the area or ignoring the individual?” Spoiler alert: those aren’t effective strategies. Ignoring the situation can lead to others getting hurt. Leaving can create a vacuum where things could spiral out of control. A security guard’s job is about proactive engagement and ensuring safety, so face it head-on instead of walking away.

To Sum It Up Handling intoxicated individuals may feel stressful, but with the right approach, you can turn a potential crisis into a controlled scenario. Prioritize safety, assess the risks, and don’t hesitate to call for backup. This balanced, professional response not only maintains order but also lays the groundwork for a safer community.

In the end, it’s about preparation. By knowing how to assess risks and handle tough situations, you’re not just preparing for an exam; you’re getting ready for real-world challenges on the job. And isn’t that what it’s all about?