What to Expect When You Arrive at FCI Herlong: Search & Check‑In Checklist
Your first visit to FCI Herlong is less about speed and more about getting through entry without a hitch. This checklist covers what staff can search, what you can't bring, and how to handle medication before you go in.
By entering (or even attempting to enter) FCI Herlong, you consent to a search. This isn't optional. It's baked into the entry process under Bureau policy and federal regulations (28 C.F.R. Part 511). Expecting to keep items private or skip screening? That leads to a frustrating standoff at the door.
Note: Refuse the search, and you may be turned away from Bureau grounds entirely.
Prohibited Items
- ✓ Weapons
- ✓ Explosives
- ✓ Drugs
- ✓ Cameras of any type
- ✓ Recording equipment
- ✓ Telephones (any type)
- ✓ Radios
- ✓ Pagers
- ✓ Electronic devices
These items are specifically listed as prohibited on the Notification to Visitor form. Leave them out of your pockets, bags, and any vehicle compartments you might reach for during check-in. If staff have to pause the process because of something you brought, it slows everyone down and puts your visit at risk. Refuse to complete the search altogether, and you'll be turned away.
Bringing medication? List it on the Notification to Visitor form. The form requires you to write down all medication you're carrying, including over-the-counter items. Don't assume anything is exempt.
Even after you declare it, medication stays behind. The Notification to Visitor form instructs you to leave it at the entry area, so plan for that before you get in line.
Tip: Declare every medication you have with you on the form, then be ready to leave it at the entry area as instructed.
Arrival Checklist
- ✓ Call ahead to confirm the visiting schedule before you depart: 603-342-4000
- ✓ If you are carrying medication, list all types on the Notification to Visitor form
- ✓ Be prepared to leave any carried medication at the entry area
- ✓ Do not bring prohibited objects, especially electronics like phones and other electronic devices, or items like cameras and recording equipment
Before you hit the road, call FCI Herlong at 603-342-4000 to confirm the visiting schedule. Things change, and a quick call can save you from showing up at the wrong time or missing your visit because of a last-minute restriction.
- Clear prohibited items before you approach entry: Leave phones, cameras, recording equipment, and other prohibited objects behind.
- Expect to be searched: Entry (or attempted entry) means you consent to a search under Bureau policy and 28 C.F.R. Part 511.
- Decide before you get to the door: If you refuse to be searched, you may be prohibited from entering.
- Do a last scan of pockets and bags: Weapons, explosives, drugs, radios, pagers, and electronic devices are all on the prohibited list.
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