Everywhere around the country, officials must ensure there are enough officers on staff at correctional facilities, and make certain they are all properly trained to keep themselves and inmates safe. When hiring becomes a challenge, it's time to step up hiring efforts.

The Alabama prison system is currently facing a lack of staffing, and the Department of Corrections plans to make a renewed push for recruits by increasing benefits and ensuring there are opportunities for advancement.

It's important for firefighters to have highly specific situational training and be in a state of readiness for any situation that may occur. Periodic joint training exercises can keep their skills sharp.

Illinois firefighters recently provided a great example of this technique in action, gathering at the University of Illinois to train together in simulated environments. The demonstrations included examples of fires in houses, basements, garages and other types of structures.