What is a common misconception about the security guard profession?

Believing that security guards have policing authority is a misconception about the profession. Security guards are not law enforcement officers and do not have the same powers as police, which include making arrests or carrying firearms unless specifically authorized and trained to do so. Their role typically involves maintaining safety and security for people and property, preventing crime through observation and reporting, and responding to situations as they arise. This misconception can lead to misunderstandings about the limits of a security guard's responsibilities and the scope of their authority in emergency or confrontational situations. Understanding this distinction is crucial for both security personnel and the public to effectively navigate expectations regarding the security profession.