When are weaponless strategies considered most appropriate?

Weaponless strategies are considered most appropriate when words do not control an inmate and the use of a weapon is not necessary. This approach emphasizes the importance of de-escalating a potentially volatile situation without resorting to physical force or weapons.

In scenarios where communication has failed, but there is still a need to manage the inmate’s behavior effectively, practicing weaponless strategies provides a means to maintain safety and control. These strategies can include verbal de-escalation techniques, physical presence, or positioning that aims to calm the situation while minimizing risk to both the staff and the inmate involved.

The rationale is that when physical confrontation can be avoided altogether, it leads to a safer environment for everyone. Employing weaponless strategies prioritizes crisis intervention techniques that focus on communication and control, rather than aggression or fear-induced tactics, aligning with best practices in correctional environments.