When is the best time to perform a headcount?

Performing a headcount before and after shift changes is critical for ensuring the safety and security of inmates and staff within a correctional facility. This timing is strategic because it helps to establish an accurate record of all individuals present in the facility at key transition points.

Headcounts conducted at the beginning of a shift verify that all inmates are accounted for and that no one is missing or has escaped. Similarly, performing a headcount at the end of the shift assures that all inmates remain present and that any transfer of custody between incoming and outgoing staff is documented and secure.

This practice minimizes the risk of discrepancies in inmate counts, which can lead to security breaches or unaccounted individuals in the facility. Additionally, conducting headcounts consistently at these times fosters routine and discipline among staff and inmates alike, making it easier to maintain order and manage the daily operations of the jail effectively.