In the event of a serious assault on staff, what is one critical step that must be taken?

In the context of a serious assault on staff within a correctional facility, one critical step that must be taken is to initiate a lockdown of the facility. This action is essential because it helps to secure the environment, ensuring that no further incidents can occur while the situation is being assessed and managed. Locking down the facility allows for the safety of both staff and inmates by limiting movement and interactions, which is crucial after a violent incident.

This step also enables the staff to control the scene of the assault, facilitate a thorough investigation, and prevent any potential escalation of violence. It creates a controlled environment where responders can evaluate the situation, ensure the safety and wellbeing of all individuals involved, and deploy emergency protocols effectively.

While transporting the assailant or videotaping inmate movement may be actions taken later in the incident management process, and notifying family members is necessary for support but not a critical immediate response, initiating a lockdown is fundamental to maintaining order and safety in the facility during and after a serious incident.