A watchtower is a tall structure used for observation, often made of wood or metal. It can be used by prison authorities, firefighters, and tourists, and its height is based on its purpose and surrounding objects. Watchtowers can be found in correctional facilities to track pleas and prevent escape, and also for recreational purposes like the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
A watchtower is a structure that is normally taller than most of its surroundings. Such a structure is typically built for observation. It can be used by prison authorities, firefighters and tourists.
In many cases, a watchtower is a room or building that rests on a tall structure. The load-bearing portion of the structure, which also provides its height, is usually made of wood or metal. In some cases, however, a natural feature, such as a hill or mountain, provides the supporting structure and height.
The height of the watchtowers can vary. The height is commonly based on what the structure is used for as well as other objects that surround it. To be effective, such a structure generally needs to be taller than most objects in the observation area. Otherwise, the view could be obstructed and the structure could be rendered useless.
A fire lookout tower, for example, is used to locate forest fires so they can be extinguished or contained. This is an important task as it can help save lives and property. Unless the tower is taller than the surrounding trees or other natural features, the person observing will not have a clear view. Fire lookout towers are used by forestry and firefighting professionals in many places around the world.
Another environment where a lookout tower can be found is in a correctional facility. In this case, the structure can perform two important functions. First, it allows correctional staff to track pleas. This measure provides security for both inmates and other correctional staff. If there is a conflict or other prohibited activity, it can be identified and dealt with promptly.
The second function of a correctional watchtower is to prevent escape. Most correctional facilities employ a variety of tactics to prevent inmates from escaping. A watchtower is a humane measure, which can be more effective than cameras or barbed wire. At night, searchlights are often used to sweep the area to improve visibility for those on watch.
A watchtower can also be used for recreational purposes. Tourists spend large sums of money every year on some of the world’s most famous watchtowers. One of them is the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. At 1,052 feet (about 321 m), this lookout tower allows tourists to have an unobstructed view of the city.
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