DOC demobilizes Incident Command System, keeps a close eye on heating equipment

• Carolynn Stocker
• January 16 2024

As temperatures throughout the state began to normalize Tuesday, the Montana Department of Corrections demobilized the Incident Command System (ICS), the members of which met regularly throughout the weekend to manage heating issues at DOC facilities.

“Our maintenance teams are continuing to monitor and troubleshoot as minor issues pop up, but we have had no new major heating issues affecting inmates at any of our facilities for the past couple of days,” said DOC Director Brian Gootkin.

Extreme temperatures resulted in a malfunction of one of two boilers at the Work Reentry Center (WRC) at Montana State Prison Friday night. The issue affected 180 out of more than 1,500 inmates. In addition, the boiler at Pine Hills Correctional Facility in Miles City on Saturday night failed, affecting 110 residents.

In both cases, the boilers were repaired within hours. Inmates were provided with extra blankets and portable heaters were installed in common areas for warmth. The department was stocked with supplies in preparation for emergency situations, but did reach out to area businesses for additional resources including space heaters.

“We have a dedicated team at the DOC and great relationships with local partners,” Gootkin said. “Montanans always come together when times get tough and this past weekend was another great example of that.”