Patrolling, Observation, and Reporting
Purposeful Patrol
A patrol is not walking; it is systematic observation. Use varied routes and unpredictable timing so patterns cannot be exploited. Know your post orders and the critical assets on your route: doors, alarms, cameras, lighting, and access points. Vary your pace, stop to observe, and use all senses - smell smoke, hear glass breaking, notice unusual silence.
Observation Skills
Practice descriptive observation: height, build, clothing, distinguishing marks, direction of travel, vehicle make/model/plate. Avoid conclusions like "suspicious" without facts. Note baseline conditions so anomalies stand out - a door that is normally locked but is now ajar. Trap: questions reward guards who "confront" a suspicious person. The better answer is usually to observe, report, and maintain safety.
Report Writing
Reports must be accurate, objective, complete, timely, and legible. Write in first person past tense, chronologically, using quotes for statements and facts not opinions. Include who, what, when, where, how, and what action you took. Never alter a report after submission; use a supplemental report for new information.
Worked Example
You find a rear door propped open at 02:14. A weak report says: "Door was open, checked it, all okay." A strong report says: "At 02:14 on 3 June, while patrolling the north perimeter, I observed the rear loading door (Door N-4) propped open approximately 15 cm with a wooden wedge. No persons were visible. I removed the wedge, secured the door, and notified the shift supervisor at 02:16. Camera review requested." The second version is factual, chronological, and actionable.