NCJ Number
178200
Journal
Corrections Technology and Management Volume: 3 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 1999 Pages: 42-46
Date Published
1999
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Fires and firefighting in correctional institutions are discussed in terms of the types of fires that occur and measures to prepare for and deal with fires.
Abstract
The four classes of fires range from Class A fires involving paper-based or wood-based combustibles to Class D fires involving combustible metals such as zirconium and magnesium. Newer correctional facilities are designed with the latest technology and updated fire codes in mind. The older facilities have had to make adjustments and renovations to meet some of the fire codes. However, some newer facilities have a false sense of security because of the fire suppression and detection advancements. Every correctional facility needs updated fire safety policies and procedures in effect to direct the staff during a fire emergency. All staff need to know which evacuation route to use, the secondary evacuation locations and exits, and the location of emergency and firefighting equipment. Local fire departments should tour the facility annually and should have copies of the emergency fire and evacuation policies. Correctional officers need to know their responsibilities when they discover a fire. Proper equipment and training are also crucial. Each shift should have at least two fire drills per month. In addition, every correctional employee is responsible for fire prevention. Case examples and photographs