Heather Watson

Correctional Officer

Department of Corrections

Lancaster

08.2015 - 08.2024

Administered first aid when required due to injury or illness sustained by an inmate while under supervision.
Maintained order in the prison by monitoring inmate behavior and intervening when necessary.
Performed security checks on visitors entering the facility as well as on packages being delivered to inmates.
Assisted in training new Correctional Officers in proper safety protocols and techniques for dealing with difficult situations.
Conducted searches of inmates, cells, and prison grounds to detect contraband or illegal activities.
Collaborated with outside agencies such as social workers, psychologists, and probation officers when necessary.
Interacted with inmates in an effort to reduce tension between them and maintain a peaceful atmosphere within the facility.
Responded to emergency situations such as riots or disturbances with appropriate force measures.
Conducted regular cell inspections looking for evidence of drug use or other prohibited items that could pose a threat to security.
Provided guidance and counseling services to help inmates adjust to their new environment and develop life skills needed upon release from prison.
Enforced prison rules and regulations while maintaining a safe environment for inmates and staff.
Transported prisoners between facilities or court hearings using secure vehicles equipped with restraints.
Supervised prisoners during meals, recreation time, work assignments, medical visits, court appearances, and other activities.
Prepared detailed reports documenting all relevant information related to daily operations at the correctional facility.
Observed inmate behavior to prevent crime, escape attempts and other dangerous activities.
Inspected cells and conducted random searches of common areas.
Applied non-violent response tools and physical restraint during problematic situations.
Responded to emergencies and incidents, such as fights or attempted escapes, using appropriate restraint techniques.
Employed de-escalation techniques, verbal commands and physical and mechanical restraints to address unruly inmates.
Enforced institutional policies and procedures to maintain order and security within the correctional facility.
Participated in the development and implementation of escape prevention plans and emergency evacuation procedures.
Informed inmates and visitors of rules, safety and security procedures and responsibilities.
Assisted in the processing of new inmates, including taking photographs, collecting personal information, and explaining facility rules.
Supervised offender work assignments and evaluated performance for compliance with standard regulations.
Directed visitor sign-in, documenting processes and completing appropriate visitation logs.
Supervised inmate activities, including meals, recreation times, and work assignments.
Facilitated communication between inmates and facility staff, including relaying requests and grievances.
Served as a role model for inmates by demonstrating positive behavior and promoting educational and vocational training programs.
Provided first response medical care in emergency situations until professional medical staff could take over.
Maintained detailed logs of inmate behavior, incidents, and daily activities.
Trained new correctional officers on facility procedures, safety protocols, and the ethical treatment of inmates.
Managed conflict and negotiated resolutions between inmates to prevent violence and ensure the safety of all individuals in the facility.
Supervised inmates during day-to-day activities.
Took prisoners into custody and escorted to locations within and outside facility.
Counseled inmates and responded to legitimate questions, concerns and requests.
Performed head counts, checking cells for missing inmates.
Instructed inmates in work assignments and explained tasks.
Transported inmates to court, doctor appointments and work sites.