What is an essential characteristic of a patrol log?

A patrol log is a critical tool for documenting activities and observations made during security patrols. The requirement for the log to be filled out in real-time is essential as it ensures that the information recorded is accurate, relevant, and reflects the actual circumstances as they occur. Timely entries help maintain the integrity of the record, making it more reliable for future reference or investigations. When logs are completed in real-time, this allows for immediate action if necessary, ensuring that potential incidents are documented while they are fresh in the officer's mind.

This immediacy not only promotes accountability but also ensures that any necessary follow-up actions can be taken promptly based on current observations. Therefore, in order to maintain the effectiveness and reliability of the patrol log as a security tool, real-time documentation is a fundamental characteristic.