Virginia DCJS Security Officer Practice Exam

The primary function of a security patrol is to monitor an area for security breaches and deter criminal activity. This proactive approach helps ensure a safe environment by watching for suspicious behavior, unauthorized access, and potential threats. Security patrols are often a visible presence that can discourage unlawful activity simply by being present, which enhances safety and security in the area being monitored. Their goal is not only to identify and respond to incidents as they occur but also to prevent incidents from occurring in the first place through vigilance and presence.

In contrast, while assisting in traffic control is an important task, it is not the primary purpose of security patrols. Conducting safety inspections is typically a separate duty focused on compliance and hazard identification rather than security monitoring. Performing background checks on staff is a critical function for ensuring the integrity of personnel but falls outside the main responsibilities of security patrols, which focus on surveillance and deterrence of crime.