First Day in Jail: A Survival Guide and Real-Life Insights

Entering jail for the first time can be a daunting experience, as illustrated by a firsthand account. This article provides a detailed insight into what rookies can expect on their first day of being in jail, including survival tips and real-life experiences.

Initial Adjustments and Learning the Rules

My first day in jail involved some basic but crucial tasks. I spent time making my bunk, storing personal belongings, and familiarizing myself with my surroundings. It was a whole new world, one that I was eager to understand but did not wish to return to.

Initial Training and Procedures

After making initial adjustments, I shadowed the roving officer who taught me which keys correspond to which doors. This was a vital part of ensuring I knew where to go and could navigate the facility effectively. Subsequently, I was assigned to the minimum custody block, where I learned critical procedures like filling out logbooks and conducting area searches. By the end of the day, I had also completed my first outside patrol shift, noting the driving routes, and received my uniform handcuff sets.

Given my previous misadventures, I finally had a good night’s sleep without any fear of getting caught. The experience of watching the race come to an end provided the peace of mind needed to rest.

Survival Tips and Conduct in Prison

Here are some key survival tips for your first day in jail:

No Eye Contact, Conversations, or Whimpering: Avoid making eye contact with anyone and do not have conversations with guards or other inmates. When faced with potential violence, do not attempt to talk your way out of it; instead, maintain a defiant stance. Avoid Lending, Borrowing, Gambling, and Unhealthy Associations: Refrain from lending, borrowing, or engaging in any form of gambling. Do not associate with homosexuals, as this may lead to conflict. Good Personal Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene practices. This includes regular showers, washing hands, and keeping yourself clean. Compliance: You will need to follow all instructions given by staff without question. Do so in the order they instruct you to do so.

Prison Routine and Setup

Practical steps to take when you first arrive at a new prison include:

Arrival from County Jail: Be loaded from transport and placed in a holding cell. Processing: Your personal details will be recorded, including name, date of birth, and a photograph. A strip search and delousing shower will follow, conducted in the presence of ten others. Waiting: You will be kept in holding cells while awaiting your housing unit. Housing Unit: Once at the housing unit, an array of other inmates will likely yell "fresh fish" upon seeing a new arrival. Cell and Celly: You will meet your cellmate and begin unpacking. Ensure your partner is cooperative to establish a good start. Dayroom: Upon leaving the cell, you will face judgment from other inmates, so blend in and be cautious of potential threats. Learning Your Surroundings: Understand the dynamics of the prison. Recognize cliques, power structures, and noise patterns. Stay Invisible: Become a "wall flower" by not drawing attention to yourself and being cautious in interactions. Self-Sufficiency: Embrace self-reliance; trust no one in the prison. Survival: Prioritize survival, focusing on personal safety and staying out of trouble.

Surviving in prison is a delicate balancing act, requiring a blend of caution, personal hygiene, and self-sufficiency. The first day can be rough, but following advice like this can significantly ease the transition.

Conclusion

The first day in jail can be challenging, but it's crucial to follow these survival tips to ensure a smoother transition. By adhering to the outlined guidelines, you can navigate the initial days more confidently and potentially reduce conflict within the prison environment.