Use of Force Continuum

The use of force continuum is a guideline used by law enforcement and civilian self-defense training programs to illustrate appropriate responses to varying levels of threat. It helps you determine what level of force — if any — is justified in a given situation.

📊 Force Levels (Typical Civilian Model):

• Presence: Your mere presence may deter a threat
• Verbal Commands: Firm, clear voice to stop aggression
• Empty-Hand Control: Blocking, pushing, or non-lethal physical intervention
• Less-Lethal Force: Pepper spray, Taser, baton, etc. (where legal)
• Deadly Force: Only when there is an immediate threat of death or great bodily harm

⚖️ Use Deadly Force Only When:

• You are in immediate fear of death or serious bodily injury
• You cannot safely retreat (unless in your home or under Castle Doctrine)
• The threat is credible, imminent, and unavoidable

🛑 De-Escalation Is Key:

• Avoid confrontation whenever possible
• Leave the area if safe to do so
• Use force only as a last resort

Understanding the use of force continuum prepares you to make better, faster decisions in dangerous situations — and to justify those decisions if questioned later. Always act within the law and with restraint.