Federal Protective Service (FPS) Protective Security Officer Practice Test 2026 - Free FPS Security Officer Practice Questions and Study Guide

A Protective Security Officer (PSO) should prioritize the safety and security of both the detained individual and the environment during the detention process. The appropriate action is to check for weapons while ensuring that valuable items are left with the detained person. This approach balances the need to mitigate risk by assessing for any potential threats (like weapons) while also respecting the personal belongings that may hold significant value for the individual, such as money, identification, or personal mementos.

By focusing on checking for weapons, the PSO is able to prevent any potential harm, while allowing items that do not pose a risk to remain with the individual. This practice fosters a level of respect towards the person detained, minimizing the humiliation or distress that may come from completely stripping them of their personal possessions. It also complies with guidelines surrounding the treatment of individuals in custody, as it respects their rights and privacy within the parameters of security measures.