What is the first step a security officer should take after witnessing a disturbance?

The first step a security officer should take after witnessing a disturbance is to notify a supervisor or law enforcement. This action is crucial because it ensures that the appropriate authorities are made aware of the situation, allowing them to assess the severity of the disturbance and deploy additional resources if necessary. Notifying a supervisor or law enforcement provides a structured response to the situation, which is vital in maintaining safety and order.

By reporting the incident immediately, security officers can also rely on the experience and guidance of supervisors or law enforcement, who may have protocols in place for handling such disturbances. This step also helps in documenting the chain of response and ensuring that the situation is managed in a consistent and legally compliant manner.

Addressing a disturbance often requires coordination with others, and relying on proper channels enhances the likelihood of an effective resolution while keeping everyone involved safer. Taking immediate action alone could escalate the situation or put the officer and others at risk without a clear understanding of the disturbance's context.