Deputies are vulnerable to attack by the inmate during the application or removal of any restraint device. It is essential that the deputy be in a position of advantage at all times when applying or removing the potentially dangerous equipment. Handcuffs should be held securely at all times when not in place; remembering that until the restraint device is properly applied, it is a piece of metal at the end of a chain. Custodies can conceivably free themselves from any type of equipment if they are not kept under close supervision.