When should an emergency count be conducted in a correctional facility?

An emergency count should be conducted in a correctional facility whenever unusual situations arise, such as hurricanes or escapes, because these scenarios can significantly affect the security and safety of the facility. During an emergency, it is crucial to account for all inmates to ensure that no one is missing and that all safety protocols are being properly followed. This rapid assessment helps maintain control over the inmate population and allows staff to respond effectively to any incidents or crises that may be occurring.

While scheduled counts, such as those conducted daily or before meals, play an important role in maintaining order, they are typically planned and do not address immediate or potentially dangerous situations. Counting during scheduled lockdowns can be important but is not as critical as accounting for inmates during emergencies that could compromise the safety of the facility. Thus, the emphasis on conducting counts during unexpected events underscores the need for vigilance and adaptability within correctional supervision.