After you determine the crime scene is safe to enter, what is the next priority?

• A. Immediately begin clearing the crime scene of aggressors and unauthorized people and issuing lockdown commands.
• B. Clear the crime scene of aggressors and all unauthorized people, monitor the area, and give verbal commands to inmates to return to their cells for a lockdown.
• C. Notify the supervisor about the incident.
• D. Take photographs of the scene.

Answer: (B)

Once you’ve confirmed the area is safe to enter, the immediate priority is to restore order and secure the scene by clearing aggressors and unauthorized people, monitoring the area, and issuing clear verbal lockdown commands to inmates to return to their cells. This protects everyone, prevents further harm, and keeps the scene under control so you can proceed with investigation and documentation without interference. While notifying a supervisor and photographing the scene are important steps, they should come after the area is secured to avoid compromising safety or evidence.