Gordon Graham
Category: Corrections

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today’s tip is for those who work in a custody environment and it deals with feeding inmates. 

Check each tray, not only for the correct number of food items and utensils but also for contraband.

Mealtime in custody facilities can be chaotic if not handled properly. It’s easy to become complacent when handing out trays of food and drink to inmates. The inmates are hungry and want their food trays right now. You may have multiple cellblocks to feed. You might just want to get this task over with. So, you get your food cart and begin quickly passing trays into the cells. 

But security needs to be a priority while feeding. You should check each tray, not only for the correct number of food items and utensils but also for contraband. Visually inspect each item on every tray. You never know what you might find. This is especially important when a tray was prepared for a specific inmate, like an inmate on a special diet. 

You should also make sure that inmates are receiving the correct portions. Sometimes a kitchen worker might give his friends extra food and give less food to others. When inmates believe they are being treated unfairly this can lead to disturbances and fights. 

Avoid complacency. Slow down. Check the meals you are delivering for contraband. Count the food items and utensils. 

And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Gordon Graham, signing off.