What does a correctional officer do on a daily basis?

A correctional officer performs security checks, supervises prisoner activities, writes reports, and maintains institutional records on a daily basis. Here are some details on the daily activities of a correctional officer:

• Performs security checks on inmates. Correctional officers spend a great deal of their time performing security checks on inmates of the correctional facility they work for. This includes detailed security checks of inmate living areas or cells, work areas, cafeterias, and other facilities. Staff and inmate safety is the top priority of a correctional officer.
• Supervises prisoner activities. Common activities that these professionals supervise include inmate meals, recreation time, work, and educational programs. Prisons have strict policies in place, and it is the daily job of a correctional officer to ensure all inmates are following rules and regulations.
• Writes reports and maintains institutional records. These might include incident reports if a prisoner was involved in a fight or some other conflict, or if an inmate was injured. They may also keep a record of prisoner activities, including disciplinary actions, personal information, and medical treatments.