North Carolina Correctional Officer State Practice Exam

What is the role of a Facility Emergency Response Team?

1. To supervise inmates during recreation

2. To be the first responders to prison emergencies

3. To assist in administrative tasks

4. To conduct routine inspections

The correct answer is: To be the first responders to prison emergencies

The role of a Facility Emergency Response Team is to be the first responders to prison emergencies. This team is specially trained to handle a variety of critical situations that may arise within a correctional facility, such as riots, escapes, medical emergencies, or natural disasters. Their primary focus is on effectively managing and mitigating the emergency to ensure the safety of both staff and inmates. Being first responders means that they are the initial line of defense in crisis situations and are equipped with the skills and procedures necessary to stabilize situations quickly, often before additional support or law enforcement arrives. This capacity is crucial in maintaining order and preventing escalation during potentially volatile incidents. In contrast, supervising inmates during recreation, assisting in administrative tasks, and conducting routine inspections do not align with the specialized emergency response focus of this team. These activities fall within the broader operational duties of correctional staff but do not reflect the immediate and reactive responsibilities that define the Facility Emergency Response Team's critical mission.