What does a "lockdown" entail in a correctional facility?

A lockdown in a correctional facility involves inmates being confined to their cells for a designated period. This action is typically taken as a response to a variety of situations such as security threats, disturbances within the facility, or operational needs. During a lockdown, all movement within the facility is restricted to maintain safety and order, allowing staff to manage any issues without the complexities that arise from having inmates in shared spaces. The confinement of inmates to their cells provides a controlled environment where authorities can focus on resolving the underlying issues that led to the lockdown, such as ensuring staff safety or conducting investigations.