A specialist training course was staged recently to strengthen the Isle of Man Prison and Probation Service’s ability to resolve challenging and potentially violent incidents.
Petrol bombs, rocks and verbal abuse were hurled at prison officers to simulate the conditions that could arise in the event of a riot by prisoners.
The scenario formed part of the annual training and refresher course to equip front-line staff with the skills to manage a range of difficult situations.
A total of 25 prison officers took part in exercises focused on control and restraint techniques, achieving timely and effective interventions, removing barricades, restoring order to the prison wings and responding to a riot.
Training was carried out while the officers came under physical and verbal attack from colleagues taking on the role of rioting prisoners. Petrol bombs were used to put skills, equipment and teamwork to the test.
Isle of Man Constabulary dog handlers and their dogs took part in a number of the exercises to enhance partnership working with the Prison and Probation Service and to assist their own training needs.
Bob McColm, Head of the Isle of Man Prison and Probation Service, said: ‘Maintaining good order and discipline is essential to the safe and effective operation of the Isle of Man Prison. As a service, we need to be prepared to deal with all eventualities. These training scenarios instil in our officers a sense of trust and confidence in their kit, their colleagues and in the management of the prison.’
He added: ‘The relationship between officers and prisoners has been highlighted during independent inspections as one of our biggest strengths. Fortunately instances of violent disorder are extremely rare at the Isle of Man Prison and some of the techniques learned by staff would be used only as a last resort when other attempts to bring about a peaceful resolution have been exhausted.’
Having well-trained prison officers is part of the Department of Home Affairs’ overall commitment to keeping people safe.
Michael Coleman MLC, Department Member with responsibility for the Prison and Probation Service, added: ‘The Isle of Man’s geographical position makes it particularly important for our staff to be equipped with a range of specialist knowledge and skills. In order to be more self-sufficient in terms of our response capability, the Island’s prison officers must be trained to a very high standard and those skills maintained by way of regular refresher courses.’
Photo - Taken during one of the training exercises.
