If a security guard finds an unattended bag in a public area, what should they do?

Reporting an unattended bag to a supervisor and following emergency protocols is the appropriate course of action because it prioritizes safety and security. In public areas, unattended bags can pose potential threats, including safety hazards or security risks. By reporting the bag, the security guard ensures that trained professionals can assess the situation appropriately.

Following established emergency protocols may involve contacting law enforcement or bomb disposal units, ensuring that any necessary actions are taken to mitigate risks without the guard putting themselves or others in harm's way. This process is crucial in ensuring a safe environment and maintaining public order.

The other options do not address safety concerns adequately and would not adhere to standard security protocols. Leaving the bag alone ignores a potential threat, repurposing it would be ethically and legally inappropriate, and inspecting its contents could expose the guard to danger without the necessary support or resources.