How often should roll calls or inmate counts be conducted during an ongoing incident?

How often should roll calls or inmate counts be conducted during an ongoing incident?

• A. Every 24 hours.
• B. Every hour.
• C. As directed by the Incident Commander, commonly at set intervals (for example, every 15–30 minutes) or per policy.
• D. Only when there is a change in custody.

Answer: (C)

Roll calls during an ongoing incident are managed through the Incident Command System, and counts should be conducted as directed by the Incident Commander, typically at set intervals or per policy. This approach keeps custody accountability accurate in real time as movements, doors, and assignments change, and it supports rapid decision-making and safety decisions for staff and inmates. Following the IC’s direction ensures the intervals fit the incident’s scale and risk, rather than being tied to a static schedule. Fixed times like every 24 hours don’t reflect the dynamic nature of an active incident, and counting only when there’s a change in custody can miss movements or shifts in status that matter for safety. An interval like every hour might be appropriate in some situations, but the critical point is alignment with the incident action plan and policy, ensuring counts are timely and responsive to the incident’s needs.

Roll calls during an ongoing incident are managed through the Incident Command System, and counts should be conducted as directed by the Incident Commander, typically at set intervals or per policy. This approach keeps custody accountability accurate in real time as movements, doors, and assignments change, and it supports rapid decision-making and safety decisions for staff and inmates. Following the IC’s direction ensures the intervals fit the incident’s scale and risk, rather than being tied to a static schedule.

Fixed times like every 24 hours don’t reflect the dynamic nature of an active incident, and counting only when there’s a change in custody can miss movements or shifts in status that matter for safety. An interval like every hour might be appropriate in some situations, but the critical point is alignment with the incident action plan and policy, ensuring counts are timely and responsive to the incident’s needs.