Situational Awareness and De-escalation

A firearm should always be considered a last resort in any security situation. Armed security officers must rely on situational awareness and de-escalation techniques to prevent conflicts from escalating to the point where deadly force is necessary. Recognizing potential threats early and using verbal and non-verbal communication can often resolve situations without drawing a firearm.

The Importance of Situational Awareness

Situational awareness is the ability to observe, assess, and respond to potential threats before they become dangerous. Security officers must remain alert to their environment at all times, identifying possible risks and making informed decisions to prevent escalation.

Key Elements of Situational Awareness

  • Observe – Continuously scan the area for suspicious behavior, body language, or unusual activity.
  • Assess – Determine whether a situation requires intervention and evaluate the level of threat.
  • Predict – Anticipate how a situation might develop and plan a response.
  • React – Choose the appropriate course of action, prioritizing de-escalation before considering the use of force.

Techniques for Maintaining Situational Awareness

  • Avoid tunnel vision by staying aware of the entire environment.
  • Keep a safe distance from potential threats while maintaining a defensive position.
  • Be aware of exit routes and potential cover in case of an emergency.
  • Watch for pre-attack indicators such as clenching fists, shifting weight, or aggressive movements.
  • Regularly change positions while patrolling to avoid being an easy target.

De-escalation Techniques to Avoid Firearm Use

De-escalation is the process of calming a potentially violent situation before it turns into a physical confrontation. A well-trained security officer can often defuse a threat using communication and non-verbal techniques, reducing the need for force.

Key De-escalation Strategies

✔ Maintain a Calm and Confident Demeanor

  • Speak in a steady, non-threatening voice.
  • Keep body language neutral and non-aggressive.

✔ Use Active Listening

  • Let the person speak and acknowledge their concerns.
  • Repeat key points to show understanding and defuse tension.

✔ Control the Distance and Positioning

  • Maintain a safe distance while allowing personal space.
  • Position yourself near an exit or behind cover if needed.

✔ Avoid Threatening Gestures or Commands

  • Do not place a hand on your firearm unless absolutely necessary.
  • Avoid shouting or making sudden movements.

✔ Offer Clear and Simple Choices

  • Provide the person with non-threatening options to comply.
  • Use phrases like “Let’s talk this out” or “I want to help, but I need you to step back.”

✔ Call for Backup or Law Enforcement if Needed

  • If de-escalation fails, call for additional support before the situation worsens.

When to Consider Drawing a Firearm

If a threat cannot be de-escalated and there is an immediate danger to life, security officers may need to prepare to use their firearm. However, a firearm should only be drawn when:

  • The threat is imminent, and there is no other way to stop it.
  • The officer or others are in immediate danger of serious bodily harm.
  • Non-lethal options have failed, and the situation cannot be controlled otherwise.
  • The officer is legally justified under state and company policies.

Even after drawing a firearm, security officers should continue to issue verbal commands and allow the suspect a chance to surrender before using force.

Best Practices for Avoiding Unnecessary Use of Force

✔ Always attempt verbal de-escalation before escalating force.
✔ Stay aware of your environment and position yourself to avoid danger.
✔ Keep a defensive stance but do not provoke aggression.
✔ Know the legal standards for using force and follow employer policies.
✔ Call for law enforcement support when a situation becomes unmanageable.

Security officers who practice situational awareness and de-escalation can resolve most conflicts without ever drawing their firearm. Avoiding unnecessary force helps protect lives, reduces legal risks, and maintains professionalism in security work.