Saskatchewan Security Guard License Practice Exam

What is "reasonable force" as it pertains to security guards?

1. The maximum amount of force necessary to control a situation

2. The minimum amount of force needed to protect oneself or others

3. A level of force that is determined by personal judgment

4. The level of force that is legally acceptable for any situation

The correct answer is: The minimum amount of force needed to protect oneself or others

"Reasonable force" refers to the minimum amount of force necessary to either protect oneself or others from harm or to effectively manage a situation without escalating it unnecessarily. This principle is rooted in the idea of proportionality, where the response should match the threat posed. In the context of security guards, this means they are trained to assess situations carefully and respond in a way that minimizes harm while still ensuring safety. For example, if an individual is exhibiting aggressive behavior, a security guard should use only the necessary force to de-escalate the situation or protect themselves and others from immediate danger, rather than employing excessive force that could lead to more significant injury or legal repercussions. The other options do not accurately reflect the concept of reasonable force. The notion of maximum force would imply a level of aggression that goes beyond what is appropriate or necessary, while personal judgment can lead to inconsistencies and could result in inappropriate use of force. Lastly, the idea of legally acceptable force varying by situation does not align with the principle of proportionality that governs the use of reasonable force in security settings.