California Security Guard Practice Exam

When a security guard discovers a fire while on duty, activating the fire alarm and initiating evacuation procedures is the most appropriate response. This action is critical because it helps to ensure the safety of all individuals in the vicinity by alerting them to the emergency and providing instructions for a safe exit.

By activating the fire alarm, the guard responsibly alerts building occupants and emergency services about the situation, which is vital for prompt response. The evacuation procedures help in managing the situation effectively and ensuring that everyone can exit the area safely, reducing the risk of injury or panic.

While attempting to extinguish the fire may seem proactive, doing so can be dangerous, especially if the fire is beyond the guard's capability to handle safely. Calling the police and waiting for their arrival would delay critical actions that could protect lives, and evacuating only non-employees would not be adequate, as all occupants, including employees, need to be evacuated in a fire emergency. Thus, the focus on alarm activation and organized evacuation is fundamental in fire safety protocol.