Florida BRT Corrections - Officer Safety Practice Exam

Which of the following behaviors helps maintain safety and security in a correctional setting?

1. Following personal beliefs over facility rules

2. Ignoring communications with fellow workers

3. Monitoring remarks, gestures, and actions

4. Documenting incidents only when necessary

The correct answer is: Monitoring remarks, gestures, and actions

Monitoring remarks, gestures, and actions is crucial in a correctional setting because these elements can provide significant insights into potential safety threats or escalating situations. By being attentive to non-verbal cues and verbal communications from inmates and staff alike, a corrections officer can identify signs of distress, aggression, or conspiratorial behavior. This vigilance helps in preventing incidents before they escalate, establishing a safer environment for both officers and inmates. When officers actively monitor these behaviors, they can intervene at appropriate moments, apply de-escalation techniques, or alert their colleagues to potential issues, thus proactively maintaining a secure environment. This practice aligns with the broader goals of correctional facility protocols, which prioritize safety for all individuals within the institution.