Reporting a Firearms Discharge

Any time a firearm is discharged on duty—whether in self-defense, to stop a threat, or due to an accidental discharge—it must be immediately reported to the proper authorities and employer. Failure to properly report a firearm discharge can lead to criminal charges, job termination, and loss of security licensing.

Who to Notify After a Firearm Discharge

• 911 Emergency Services – If the firearm discharge was in response to a threat, immediately call 911 to report the incident and request law enforcement and medical assistance if needed.
• Law Enforcement Authorities – Whether the discharge resulted in an injury or not, local or state police must be notified to conduct an official investigation.
• Your Employer or Security Supervisor – Security officers must follow their company’s reporting policies and notify their supervisor, security director, or corporate office as soon as possible.
• State Licensing or Regulatory Agencies – Some states require security officers to report firearm discharges to a licensing or regulatory agency. Security personnel should be aware of state-specific reporting laws.
• Legal Representation – If involved in a shooting, consulting a legal professional or company-assigned attorney before making detailed statements is recommended.

How to Report a Firearm Discharge

1. Call 911 and Provide Basic Information
   • Clearly identify yourself as a security officer.
   • Give your exact location and a brief description of what happened.
   • Request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
   • Do not provide unnecessary details or speculate about the situation.
2. Follow Law Enforcement Instructions
   • Keep your firearm holstered or secured when officers arrive.
   • Follow all commands calmly and without resistance.
   • If asked, provide your security credentials and firearm permit.
   • Avoid making detailed statements until legal representation is present.
3. Notify Your Employer Immediately
   • Contact your supervisor or designated security manager as soon as it is safe to do so.
   • Follow company procedures for firearm discharge reporting.
   • Expect to be placed on administrative leave or reassignment while the incident is reviewed.
4. Complete a Written Incident Report
   • Write a factual and objective report detailing:
     • Date, time, and location of the incident.
     • Description of the threat and why the firearm was used.
     • Number of shots fired and their direction.
     • Actions taken before, during, and after the shooting.
     • Names of witnesses and responding officers.
   • Avoid using opinions, assumptions, or exaggerated statements.
   • Stick to clear, precise facts and avoid speculation.
5. Report to State or Licensing Authorities (If Required)
   • Some states require an official report to a regulatory agency within a set timeframe.
   • Security officers must confirm state-specific requirements and ensure compliance.

Key Points to Remember

• All firearm discharges must be reported, even if no one was injured.
• Call 911 immediately and follow instructions from responding officers.
• Keep your firearm holstered when police arrive to avoid misunderstandings.
• Report the incident to your employer and follow company policies.
• Complete a detailed, factual, and objective written report.
• Consult legal counsel before providing a full statement if necessary.
• Follow all local, state, and employer reporting requirements.

Proper reporting of firearm discharges ensures legal protection, transparency, and professional accountability. Security officers must always act responsibly and follow the correct procedures to avoid unnecessary legal or professional consequences.