Correctional Counselor (CC1) Practice Exam

If an inmate reports safety concerns, what is the first action to take?

1. Send the inmate back to their cell

2. Notify custody immediately

3. Document the report later

4. Conduct a group discussion with other inmates

The correct answer is: Notify custody immediately

When an inmate reports safety concerns, the first action to take is to notify custody immediately. This is crucial because custody personnel are trained to handle such situations effectively and can take immediate steps to ensure the safety of the inmate and others in the facility. Safety concerns can range from threats of violence to potential harm from fellow inmates, and timely communication with custody allows for the appropriate measures to be enacted swiftly. Taking this action underscores the importance of prioritizing the well-being of the inmate and the overall safety of the facility. Responses such as sending the inmate back to their cell, documenting the report later, or conducting a group discussion with other inmates do not adequately address the urgency of the situation and can potentially leave the inmate at risk. Immediate notification ensures that action is taken before any potential harm can occur.