1. Utilize the Planning Tool for Efficient Construction

The Planning Tool is an invaluable resource, particularly if you like to meticulously design your prison before placing any actual structures. Instead of haphazardly constructing buildings that may later require resizing, use this tool to:

• Plan out your prison layout in advance.
• Adjust designs without committing resources.
• Avoid unnecessary expansions and costly mistakes.

By mapping out your facility beforehand, you save time and money, making future adjustments seamless.

2. Sprinklers Are a Must for Fire Prevention

Prisoners can be unpredictable, and fires can quickly escalate into disasters. Installing sprinklers across your prison, not just in the canteen, ensures:

• Fires are quickly controlled before spreading.
• Damage is minimized, preventing costly repairs.
• Riot situations involving arsonist inmates are better managed.

A well-placed sprinkler system can mean the difference between minor damage and a full-scale crisis.

3. Meet Prisoner Needs to Maintain Order

Keeping your inmates happy and occupied significantly reduces the likelihood of riots and escape attempts. Key strategies include:

• Common Room Activities: Provide plenty of recreational options to keep prisoners engaged.
• Visitation Areas: Allow inmates to maintain family connections, reducing frustration.
• Balanced Regime: Ensure prisoners have adequate time for work, exercise, meals, and free time.

A well-managed schedule prevents inmates from becoming agitated, reducing the risk of violent outbreaks.

4. Security and Perimeter Defense

Reducing incidents leads to higher government funding and improved prison efficiency. Here’s how you can bolster security:

• Perimeter Walls & Snipers: Prevent external breaches and reduce escape attempts.
• Guard Dog Patrols: Dogs are essential for detecting escape tunnels before they become a major problem.
• Incident Prevention: Minimize riots and disturbances to avoid costly fines and repair expenses.

Prisons with zero incidents receive significant financial incentives, making security investments highly profitable.

5. Cloning Tool for Fast Construction

For large-scale prison construction, the Cloning Tool is a lifesaver. If you’re building a mega-prison, this feature allows you to:

• Quickly duplicate cell blocks, common areas, and key structures.
• Save massive amounts of time compared to manual placement.
• Maintain consistency across different sections of your facility.

Despite previous updates moving this tool, it remains one of the most valuable features for efficient prison design.

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Following these five essential tips will help you build and maintain an efficient, profitable, and secure prison in Prison Architect.