Real-Life Communication
Every time something happens on the job, security officers complete incident reports. These point-by-point reports detail what happened and when.
These reports have to be accurate because you might have to go to court and testify. A clear, accurate report will help you remember exactly what happened.
Incident reports are not just for crimes. For example, last night there was a small fire in the office tower you patrol. It was quickly put out and caused damage to the ceiling and carpet of just one office. Apparently, it was caused by an ashtray emptied into a wastebasket.
The next day the building manager calls you from out of town. He heard about the fire and wants details.
You retrieve the incident report from your computer:
| 01:10: | Fire alarm went off. |
| 01:14: | Security company called us re: alarm. |
| 01:16: | Fire trucks arrived. |
| 01:17: | Building manager called -- no answer at home. |
| 01:17: | Fire captain came to security desk for review, went with security officer Blackwell to room L113 on second floor, area alarm was set off. |
| 01:25: | Maintenance arrived and went to location of fire. |
| 01:31: | Took parkade arms off so tenants could get in (don't function when alarm is going). |
| 01:48: | Alarm shut off. |
| 01:56: | Fire crew leaves. |
| 02:48: | Alarm company called because problem with reset. |
| 03:24: | Alarm company arrives and resets alarm. |
The building manager will read the incident report when he returns. For now, he just wants the most important details. He wants you to be brief, so you'll have to be selective in what you mention. He asks you the following questions:
- What happened?
- How much damage was there?
- Were there any other problems?
Write down what you'll say to him.