What is the first step a jail officer should take when an armed situation is identified?

When an armed situation is identified, notifying central is the most critical first step for a jail officer. This action is essential because central control is responsible for coordinating the overall response to emergencies within the facility. By alerting central, the officer ensures that the situation is communicated effectively and that appropriate resources, including backup and specialized teams, can be mobilized quickly.

In high-stress and potentially dangerous situations, the safety of both staff and inmates is a priority. Central control can provide guidance, maintain communication with emergency services if needed, and help strategize the next steps. This ensures that all actions taken afterwards, whether securing inmates in their cells or calling for additional officers, are organized and informed by a broader situational awareness. It is crucial for an officer to engage with central as soon as possible in order to leverage the support and logistics they can provide during such a critical incident.