What should a PSO do if they observe a suspicious individual?

When a Protective Security Officer (PSO) observes a suspicious individual, the appropriate response is to monitor the individual closely and report the observations to the authorities. This approach allows the PSO to maintain a level of safety while gathering information that can be crucial for further action.

Monitoring the individual ensures that the PSO can observe any suspicious behavior without escalating the situation or putting themselves or others at risk. Reporting to authorities is critical as it allows trained law enforcement or security personnel to assess the situation with proper resources and take necessary actions based on a thorough evaluation. This collaborative approach enhances the overall security response, as PSOs are often not in positions to enforce the law directly or conduct investigations.

Engaging or confronting the individual directly could potentially escalate the situation, which may lead to confrontation or create a safety risk. Ignoring minor suspicious behaviors undermines safety protocols, as other more serious threats could be overlooked. Thus, monitoring and reporting is the most effective and responsible action a PSO can take when encountering suspicious individuals.