What should an officer do upon discovering a safety hazard?

When an officer discovers a safety hazard, reporting it and securing the area is crucial. This action addresses the immediate risk to individuals and property, ensuring that no one is exposed to potential harm. By reporting the hazard, the officer notifies the appropriate authorities or maintenance personnel who can take the necessary actions to remedy the situation. Securing the area helps prevent access and minimizes the likelihood of accidents or injuries occurring as a result of the hazard. This proactive approach not only promotes the safety and security of the environment but also upholds the officer’s responsibilities.

Other options, while they may seem like they take care of the situation in different ways, do not adequately address the need for immediate action. Ignoring the hazard would allow potential dangers to persist. Leaving it for maintenance might delay urgent attention that could prevent a serious incident. Documenting it for future reference is helpful for record-keeping, but without immediate action, it fails to protect individuals in the present moment. Therefore, the correct response is to report and secure the area to ensure a safe environment.