Washington State Correctional Officer Practice Exam

What is a key step in performing a facility lockdown?

1. Open all cell doors

2. Secure all areas and account for inmates

3. Allow free movement of inmates

4. Notify only the administrative staff

The correct answer is: Secure all areas and account for inmates

A key step in performing a facility lockdown is to secure all areas and account for inmates. This procedure ensures the safety and security of both inmates and staff during a potential emergency. By securing all areas, correctional officers can prevent movement in and out of different sections of the facility, effectively controlling the situation. Accounting for inmates is equally crucial as it allows officers to verify that all individuals are present and identifies any missing persons who may pose a risk or require immediate attention. This process helps maintain order and enables officers to manage the lockdown efficiently. The other options involve actions that would compromise the safety and security of the facility during a lockdown. For example, opening all cell doors would create chaos rather than control, allowing inmates to move freely and potentially lead to dangerous situations. Allowing free movement of inmates during a lockdown defeats the purpose of the action, as it could exacerbate the emergency. Lastly, only notifying the administrative staff may leave other critical personnel uninformed and unprepared to handle the lockdown situation effectively.