What is an inmate safety smock?
An inmate safety smock is a garment worn by inmates in some correctional facilities to reduce the risk of self-harm. The smock is made of 100% cotton and has no buttons or zippers. It is designed so that it can be put on and taken off easily by the inmate. The smock is a type of uniform that helps prevent contraband from being smuggled into the facility. Smocks are used in many different correctional facilities across the United States.
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How effective are inmate safety smocks?
Inmate safety smocks have been used widely since the 1980s.They are designed to prevent self-harm and suicide by inmates, as well as preventing injury from assaults by other inmates or by staff. Anecdotal evidence suggests their use reduces injuries to both inmates and staff. However, research on the effectiveness of inmate safety smocks is limited. Historically, they have been used as part of an overall strategy to reduce self-harm; this approach has recently been called into question because of the lack of evidence that they work independently from other measures.
What are other ways to prevent suicides alongside inmate safety smocks?
Hampden County Correctional Center (HCCC) has not had any suicides in the past two decades. HCCC utilizes technology to prevent the mental deterioration that can easily occur in correctional facilities. The facility uses a MP3 headset system to offer meditational audios and various music genres. Various studies have discovered that music can raise dopamine levels. It's important to note that inmates at this facility do not wear inmate safety smocks.
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