In a potential shooting situation, what might a guard need to decide?

In a potential shooting situation, a guard's decision to clearly make his/her presence known to the suspect can be pivotal. By doing so, the guard may aim to establish a form of authority and control over the situation. This action can serve multiple purposes: it might deter the suspect from proceeding further with harmful intentions, reassure bystanders that law enforcement is present, and potentially facilitate a peaceful resolution to the encounter.

Making one's presence known can also serve as a warning for the suspect that escalation may not be tolerated, which might prompt them to reconsider their actions. This choice involves a level of confidence and assertiveness that can be crucial in de-escalating a dangerous situation without resorting to the use of force. Furthermore, by making their presence known, a guard can also assess the suspect's response, which may help determine further actions needed for safety and protection of others in the vicinity.

In critical moments where every second counts, clearly asserting presence rather than hesitation allows for a proactive stance, contributing positively to public safety and potentially averting violence.