Florida Correctional Officer Safety Practice Test

The first stage of situational awareness is best characterized by the need for individuals to be alert. This stage involves being aware of one's surroundings and being attentive to potential threats or changes in the environment. Alertness allows a correctional officer to notice key details, such as unusual behavior or environmental cues, which are crucial for maintaining safety and security in a correctional setting. Being alert sets the foundation for the subsequent stages of situational awareness, including identifying specific elements of importance, assessing the situation, and responding appropriately to any issues that arise. In correctional environments, where conditions can change rapidly, maintaining a high level of alertness is essential for effective decision-making and action.