Time to Release the Kraken: A Security Professional's Guide to Escalation

security guard kraken
In the world of security, there's a delicate balance between maintaining a calm, professional presence and knowing when to unleash your full authority. Like the mythical kraken lurking beneath calm waters, every security guard has reserves of assertiveness that should remain dormant; until the moment demands otherwise.

The Art of Measured Response

Most security situations require the gentle touch. A friendly reminder, a calm conversation, or a respectful but firm boundary is usually sufficient. The best security professionals are those who can de-escalate tensions and resolve issues without ever showing their teeth.

But there are moments when measured responses fail, and it's time to let the kraken surface.

Warning Signs That It's Kraken Time

Active threats to safety: When someone's actions pose immediate danger to themselves or others, there's no room for hesitation. This is the clearest signal that full authority must be deployed.

Repeated boundary violations: If you've issued clear warnings and someone continues to push limits—whether it's unauthorized access, harassment, or disruptive behavior—it's time to stop asking and start enforcing.

When your presence is being tested: Some individuals will deliberately challenge security personnel to gauge how far they can push. Once you've identified this pattern, a swift, authoritative response prevents the situation from deteriorating.

Emergency situations: Fire alarms, medical emergencies, or evacuations require immediate compliance. There's no time for politeness when lives are at stake.

What "Releasing the Kraken" Actually Means

Contrary to action movie stereotypes, professional escalation doesn't mean losing your temper or becoming aggressive. It means:

  • Switching from requests to commands
  • Using authoritative body language and tone
  • Clearly stating consequences
  • Following through immediately with appropriate actions
  • Calling for backup or law enforcement without hesitation
  • Physically intervening only when trained and legally justified

The Aftermath

Once the kraken has been released and the situation is under control, the best security professionals know how to return to calm waters. Document everything, debrief with your team, and reset your approach for the next interaction.

The kraken should never become your default mode, that's just being a bully with a badge. But when genuine threats emerge, knowing when and how to escalate is what separates adequate security from truly effective protection.

Your job isn't to be intimidating. It's to keep people safe. Sometimes that requires a whisper. Sometimes it requires a roar. Knowing the difference is the mark of a true professional.