U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

NCJRS Virtual Library

The Virtual Library houses over 235,000 criminal justice resources, including all known OJP works.
Click here to search the NCJRS Virtual Library

What Emergency Management Needs to Know about Corrections / What Corrections Needs to Know about Emergency Management

NCJ Number
309913
Date Published
February 2024
Length
2 pages
Annotation

This information resource addresses the unique challenges faced by correctional facilities during disasters or health emergencies, providing bullet-pointed lists of considerations for a wide variety of natural disaster or health emergency aspects.

Abstract

This brief document provides a listing of some of the unique considerations for collaborating with corrections during an emergency incident, including natural and human-caused, that require responsive action to protect life or property. The document addresses the unique qualities of correctional facilities, including potentially crowded dormitories, limited medical and isolation resources, restricted entrances, and a continual introduction of newly detained persons. It provides guidance on emergency response aspects, including: health protocols within corrections systems; collaborative planning; resource requirements and allocation; legal and regulatory frameworks; facility layout and population density; communication channels; vulnerabilities and special needs; public health guidelines; emergency management protocols; information sharing protocols; coordination with external agencies; evacuation, sheltering, and alternate care facility plans; community engagement; and resource planning.