What is an important step in the process of writing incident reports for a serious event?

An important step in the process of writing incident reports for a serious event is to obtain video evidence when available. Securing video footage provides objective documentation of the incident, allowing for a clearer understanding of the events as they unfolded. This evidence can significantly enhance the accuracy of the report, as it helps verify the actions of individuals involved and the circumstances surrounding the event. Additionally, video evidence can be crucial for investigations and can be used to validate witness statements or conflicting accounts.

Gathering witness statements from nearby inmates can be useful, but the reliability of those accounts can vary. Providing unverified information from staff can lead to inaccuracies and misinterpretations. Documenting actions taken post-incident is also vital, but it is often considered a follow-up step after the immediate details of the incident have been established through concrete evidence. Therefore, obtaining video evidence is foundational in creating a thorough and credible incident report.