> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.legacydoc.xyz/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# 3.1 Use of Force Procedures

> The five-step escalation of force framework: officer presence, verbal commands, empty hand control, less-lethal methods, and lethal force.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Officer presence" icon="user-shield">
    * The presence of a correctional officer works as a deterrent, and can diffuse a situation.
    * Officers should keep professional and a nonthreatening demeanor.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Verbal Commands" icon="comment">
    * Issuing calm, nonthreatening commands.
    * Officers may increase their volume and shorten commands in an attempt to gain compliance.
    * Short commands might include "Stop," or "Don't move."
    * If nonthreatening commands don't work a warning can follow. For example: "Don't move or you'll be tased".
  </Step>

  <Step title="Empty Hand Control" icon="hand-fist">
    * Soft techniques include grabs, holds and joint locks (including tackling) to restrain an individual.
    * Hard techniques include punches and kicks for defence.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Less-Lethal Methods" icon="bolt">
    * Blunt impact, such as nightsticks
    * Taser Deployment
    * Beanbag Deployment
  </Step>

  <Step title="Lethal Force" icon="gun">
    Officers can use deadly weapons such as firearms to stop an individual's actions only under certain conditions:

    * Lethal force may only be used when the individual is presenting an immediate threat to life, whether that be your own, another officer's, or an innocent third party.
    * A warning shot should be issued where possible.
    * Any use of lethal force must follow with an incident report being written.
  </Step>
</Steps>