Security audits are also helpful. Almost every major riot in U.S. history began with some breach of security. Riots also occur when visitors, dignitaries, and the news media are in the prison, so special security measures should be taken to protect visiting dignitaries. Routine and random shakedowns for contraband will only go so far, as there should also be surprise integrity and security checks. They should appear to be paying attention, identifying and addressing problems, and interacting with staff and inmates.
Training is also essential, and simulated riot exercises make the best training.
Hostage negotiation training is also helpful. A riot can always be put out, of course, by overwhelming force, but the lessons of Attica are important to know. Overwhelming force as a tactic works best if done soon after the riot breaks out, in order to prevent inmates from fashioning weapons, fortifying positions, and so forth. Intelligence information about leadership, location of hostages, and inmate weaponry should be obtained. Sometimes, bringing in an outside negotiator is helpful since persons in command authority should refrain from speaking directly with inmates, but whoever is the negotiator should stay the negotiator to ensure continuity.