How should a security guard handle lost property?

The appropriate way for a security guard to handle lost property is to document the find and report it according to company policy. This approach ensures that the item is properly accounted for and increases the likelihood of returning the property to its rightful owner. Following company policy is crucial, as it typically outlines both the procedures for reporting and documenting found items and any necessary steps for handling valuable or sensitive belongings.

Documenting the find includes providing details about the item, its condition, the location where it was found, and the time it was discovered. This ensures transparency and creates a record that can be referenced if questions arise later. Reporting the find according to company policy further protects the security guard and the organization from potential liability issues.

This process also promotes a culture of integrity and responsibility, reinforcing the trust that the public and company stakeholders place in security personnel. By adhering to established protocols, security guards also support a systematic approach to lost property management that facilitates efficient return and minimizes confusion or misplacement.