How Security Teams Handle Fire, Crime, Medical and Other Critical Incidents

Security professionals are the first responders in emergencies. Whether managing fire, medical incidents, or crime, their actions are crucial in minimising risks, ensuring public safety, and preserving property. In high-pressure situations, their ability to stay calm, make swift decisions, and follow established protocols can prevent incidents from escalating into full-blown crises.

At KnowledgeTree, security personnel receive comprehensive training that prepares them to manage emergencies effectively. Through courses accredited by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), aspiring security officers are taught the skills to handle diverse incidents. One essential course, Handle Security Incidents and Services (HSIS), provides foundational knowledge on responding to threats and emergencies in various settings.

This blog explores how security teams respond to critical incidents, emphasising the importance of proper training and preparedness.

The Crucial Role of Security Teams in Incident Response

Security officers act as the link between the public and emergency services. In many cases, they are the first point of contact during an incident, and their quick intervention can make all the difference. Their duties extend beyond observation; security officers actively manage situations until specialised responders arrive.

From crowded commercial buildings to corporate offices and residential complexes, security teams ensure that protocols are followed and safety measures are upheld. Their preparedness stems from rigorous training, which equips them to handle:

• Fire and facility damage
• Crime-related incidents such as theft or trespassing
• Medical emergencies requiring immediate attention
• Bomb threats and suspicious items

Security officers must possess many skills, including threat detection, crowd control, first aid, and communication. These competencies enable them to maintain order and lead with authority during critical moments.

Responding to Fire Incidents

Fire is one of the most dangerous emergencies in public spaces. A small spark can rapidly escalate into a full-fledged blaze if not addressed immediately. Security officers are often the first to detect smoke or flames; their swift actions can prevent the fire from spreading.

Key Responsibilities During Fire Incidents:

• Evacuation Management: Security teams guide occupants to safety through designated fire exits. Clear communication and crowd management skills are essential to prevent panic.
• Fire Suppression: Basic firefighting techniques, including using extinguishers and fire hoses, are part of security training.
• Coordination with Firefighters: Security officers relay vital information to fire services upon arrival, expediting the response process.

Understanding Different Classes of Fire:

Security officers are trained to identify different types of fires and respond accordingly:

• Class A: Fires involving ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, cloth) – extinguishers with water or foam are used.
• Class B: Flammable liquids (gasoline, oil) – dry chemical or carbon dioxide extinguishers are employed.
• Class C: Electrical fires – non-conductive extinguishers like CO2 are necessary.
• Class D: Metal fires – requires specialised extinguishing agents.
• Class K: Kitchen fires (cooking oils) – wet chemical extinguishers are essential.

Security teams’ knowledge of fire classifications ensures appropriate action, reducing damage and enhancing safety.

Example Scenario:

A fire breaks out in a retail complex due to an electrical fault. The security team immediately triggers the fire alarm, evacuates the premises, and uses extinguishers to contain the flames until firefighters arrive. This quick response prevents injuries and limits property damage.

Managing Crime-Related Incidents

Crime prevention is a core aspect of a security officer’s duties. From petty theft to violent encounters, security teams play a proactive role in maintaining order. Their presence alone can deter criminal activity, but when incidents do occur, their intervention is critical.

Steps in Handling Crime Incidents:

• Monitoring and Surveillance: Security officers continuously monitor CCTV systems to detect suspicious behaviour.
• Intervention and Apprehension: If a crime is in progress, officers take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation and, if necessary, apprehend the suspect.
• Evidence Gathering: Proper documentation and preservation of evidence ensure that law enforcement has all the necessary information to proceed with an investigation.

The Importance of De-Escalation Techniques:

Security officers are trained to handle volatile situations without resorting to force. De-escalation strategies, such as calm communication and empathy, are essential in defusing tensions. This approach reduces the likelihood of violence and ensures the safety of everyone involved.

Real-Life Example:

A security officer notices unusual behaviour near a restricted area. Upon closer inspection, they catch an individual attempting to steal equipment. The officer intervenes, takes control of the situation and hands them over to the police, along with surveillance footage.

Addressing Medical Emergencies

Medical emergencies can occur anytime, and security personnel are often the first to arrive at the scene. Basic first aid training allows security officers to stabilise injured or ill individuals until professional medical services arrive.

Essential Medical Response Skills:

• First Aid and CPR: Security officers are trained to administer first aid for minor injuries and perform CPR in life-threatening situations.
• Use of AEDs: Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are essential for responding to cardiac emergencies, and security officers are often trained to operate them.
• Facilitating Paramedic Access: Security personnel guide paramedics to the affected individual, ensuring that emergency services can operate immediately.

Handling Mental Health Crises:

Security teams are increasingly trained to recognise signs of mental health issues and respond with compassion. Mental health emergencies require careful management to prevent harm to individuals and those around them.

Case Study:

During a corporate event, an attendee collapses. A security officer performs CPR and uses an AED, stabilising the individual until paramedics arrive. Their quick response saves the attendee’s life.

Handling Bomb Threats and Suspicious Items

Security teams are trained to respond to high-risk incidents, such as bomb threats and suspicious package discoveries. These situations require extreme caution, as mishandling can lead to catastrophic results.

Procedures for Bomb Threats:

• Evacuation and Perimeter Establishment: Security officers evacuate the area and set up a perimeter to keep bystanders safe.
• Coordination with Bomb Disposal Units: Officers communicate directly with explosive ordnance disposal teams to provide detailed information on the situation.

The Importance of HSIS in Security Training

Handle Security Incidents and Services (HSIS) is a critical component of security training in Singapore. It is one of three mandatory courses for obtaining a Security Officer (SO) license and is designed to provide essential incident response skills.

Key Highlights of HSIS Training:

• Scenario-Based Learning: Role-play assessments simulate real-life incidents, preparing officers for high-pressure environments.
• Legal and Ethical Considerations: Trainees learn the legal framework surrounding apprehensions, arrests, and evidence handling.

Building a Safer Future

Security teams that undergo comprehensive training—such as the courses offered at KnowledgeTree—are better equipped to handle emergencies, protect lives, and safeguard property.

Explore KnowledgeTree’s range of courses and discover how to build a security industry career in a growing Singapore.