Firearms training ensures that officers can handle firearms safely and effectively, making sure they only use force when necessary and proportionate.

Deadly force is permitted when an officer believes there is an imminent threat to their life or the life of others, and non-lethal alternatives are not viable.

The 'use of force continuum' is a guideline that allows officers to escalate or de-escalate their use of force based on the behavior of the suspect.

Non-deadly force is used when an officer needs to gain control of a situation but is not facing an immediate threat to life, ensuring that the force used is appropriate to the situation.

Officers should consider the severity of the threat, the potential harm to others, the suspect’s actions, and whether the use of force is necessary and proportional.

Firearms should only be drawn when there is a reasonable belief that it is necessary for protection, and officers should maintain control and aim the weapon at the threat if appropriate.

De-escalation is the practice of reducing the intensity of a confrontation by using verbal communication, calming techniques, and minimizing the need for force.

Officers should assess the situation carefully, attempting to use verbal commands and less-lethal techniques first, while considering the threat level before using force.

The key principle is that force must be proportional to the threat or resistance encountered, and only the minimum force necessary should be used.