Prison cell

Need information about a prison cell? There are many variations of a prison cell that have developed throughout the history of detention centers. Generally, a prison cell is the living quarters for inmates in a penal complex. A prison cell is a room enclosed by walls, floor and ceiling and the door/exit is made of secure locking bars or a secure metal door to prevent attempts of escape.

But a prison cell can vary in size and are built to house differing numbers of inmates depending on the complex, the cell block and the type of prisoner. On average a prison cell about 7 feet wide to 12 feet long and usually will hold one or two detainees equipped with sanitation and a bed. There are many additional types built for special purposes. A bullpen or detention cell is a large room for people awaiting trial or sentencing, also used for refugees or illegal immigrants and are confined together temporarily.

A 'cooler' or a 'tank' is a space for keeping violent prisoners. A 'dungeon' refers to solitary confinement, a dark cell where prisoners can be isolated. A guardroom is a cell in which soldiers under guard can be confined. A Sweatbox is a small or narrow cell. Nowadays prisoners may keep personal possessions in appropriate quantities providing they do not contravene with regulation standards.

Prisoners often keep televisions, books, clothing, food and other luxury items and routine checks ensure that prohibited items are not being stored. Unless there are extenuating high risk circumstances, prisoners will spend parts of the day outside of their cell to participate in exercise, dinner, and other activities.