Basic Corrections Officer: Certification Study Guide

During a riot, what should be the first action taken?

1. Activate IMS

2. Identify the situation

3. Isolate or contain the disturbance

4. Prepare immediate responses

The correct answer is: Isolate or contain the disturbance

The most appropriate initial action during a riot is to isolate or contain the disturbance. This is crucial because it helps mitigate the immediate danger and prevent the situation from escalating any further. Containment allows officers to establish a perimeter, manage the environment, and protect both inmates and staff while minimizing potential injuries and damage. By isolating the area of disturbance, officers can focus their efforts on controlling the situation more effectively. This action also helps to prevent the riot from spreading to other parts of the facility, which could lead to a larger crisis and make it even more difficult to manage the situation. Identifying the situation, activating the Incident Management System, and preparing immediate responses are important steps that follow but should come after containment efforts are initiated. Engaging in these activities while the riot is still ongoing could lead to chaos and hinder the ability to stabilize the environment.