Safety: Protocols for Handling Found Weapons and Drugs at Your Hotel

In the hospitality industry, ensuring the safety and security of guests and staff is paramount. One area of concern that hotels must address with utmost diligence is the discovery of weapons or illicit substances within their premises. This article outlines the comprehensive policies and procedures that our company has implemented to handle such situations effectively.

Weapons Policy

When a weapon is discovered within a guest room, our protocol mandates that hotel staff refrain from directly handling the weapon. Instead, specific steps are followed to ensure the safety of all involved parties.

The procedures are:

1. Weapons found within guest rooms MUST NEVER be touched by hotel staff.

2. Staff members shall call the hotel manager and notify them of what has been found and the room number.

3. The manager shall E-Key the room to prevent anyone including staff from entering the room.

4. The manager shall take a photo of the weapon if it is in an area a photo can be taken without being touched.

5. The manager shall call the non-emergency police department’s phone number, notifying them of what has been found.

6. The guest’s room shall remain locked until local law enforcement arrives on property to collect the weapon.

7. Manager shall enter the weapon into the lost and found logs making notation local law enforcement has taken possession.

8. Once the weapon has been taken by law enforcement, the room may be unsecure, and the turn may be completed.

9. If a guest calls regarding the weapon being left behind, the hotel shall notify the guest they need to contact law enforcement.

10. Provide guest calling with law enforcements non-emergency phone number.

Similarly, if a weapon is found within public areas of the hotel, staff are instructed not to touch the weapon directly. Instead, measures are taken to safeguard the area and prevent unauthorized access until law enforcement arrives.

Drugs and Drug Paraphernalia Policy

The discovery of drugs or narcotics within a guest room requires a similar approach of caution and adherence to protocol. Staff members must be trained to avoid direct contact with these substances due to potential health hazards.

The procedures are:

1. Narcotics found within guest rooms MUST NEVER be touched by hotel staff.

2. Staff members shall call the hotel manager and notify them of what has been found and room number.

3. The manager shall E-Key the room to prevent anyone including staff from entering the room.

4. Manager shall take photos of narcotics and generate a report within Risk Manager Pro, again photos shall be taken without touching the narcotics.

5. The manager shall call the non-emergency police department’s phone number, notifying them of what has been found and its location.

6. The guest’s room shall remain locked until local law enforcement arrives on property to collect the narcotics.

7. Once law enforcement has cleared the room, the room may be unsecured, and the turn may be completed.

8. Staff members MUST always wear PPE while cleaning the room.

Additionally, stringent safety measures, such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), are emphasized to mitigate any risks associated with handling drug-related items during the cleaning process.

By implementing clear and comprehensive policies for handling found weapons, drugs, and drug paraphernalia, our company prioritizes the safety and well-being of both guests and staff. These protocols ensure swift and appropriate action while minimizing potential risks and liabilities. Through continuous training and adherence to these procedures, we maintain a secure and welcoming environment for all who visit our establishment.

If you have any questions, please contact Training@whgextstay.com.

Additional resources:

Protocols for Handling Found Weapons and Drugs at Your Hotel Job Aid - BizLibrary LMS - Home