Security officers who work in a facility with a history of disturbances should do which of the following?

• A. Increase patrols without training
• B. Receive basic training in aggression management
• C. Carry firearms as first response
• D. Ignore disturbances

Answer: (B)

De-escalation and aggression management are essential when working in a facility with a history of disturbances. Officers trained in aggression management learn to read early warning signs, use calm, controlled verbal communication, maintain safe distances, and apply nonviolent tactics to defuse tension. This approach helps prevent incidents from escalating, reduces the risk of injury to staff and patients, and aligns with use-of-force policies that mandate the least amount of necessary intervention. It also sets the stage for calling for appropriate backup and documenting incidents properly.

Increasing patrols without training may give a sense of security but won’t equip officers to safely handle confrontations. Carrying firearms as a first response is inappropriate in most healthcare or facility contexts and contradicts policies that require force to be used only when necessary. Ignoring disturbances is dangerous and unacceptable, as it leaves safety issues unresolved and can worsen the situation.

So, the best approach is for security staff to receive basic training in aggression management to handle disturbances effectively and safely.