Is Your Use of Force Training Balanced? The Guide You Need
Posted by Guardian Outfitters on
Honing Skills and Judgment for Critical Incidents
In law enforcement and security, split-second decisions can have lasting consequences.
So, apart from learning martial techniques, use of force training should also embed ethical practices within you. Meaning, you'll be able to handle difficult situations and do so responsibly.
Here at Guardian Outfitters, we get it.
Because we know just how exposed security and safety personnel are, we provide gear, apparel, training equipment, and courses to help you stay safe.
Join us as we explore the ethical factors of using force and what to look for before committing to a course.
What Exactly is "Use of Force"?
Use of force refers to any action a peace officer or security professional takes to gain control of a situation or a person. This can range from verbal commands and physical restraint to the use of less-lethal tools like batons.
But more than simply knowing how to use these tools, you must understand when and why – that's where ethics come in.Every decision an officer makes in these situations can have lasting consequences.
What is the Use of Force Training?
Courses teaching the use of force prepare trainees for the difficult and often unpredictable situations they may face on the job. It focuses on understanding the legal and ethical boundaries of force and developing the skills to de-escalate situations whenever possible.
But when force is unavoidable, you must be confident in acting decisively and ethically.
Use of force training helps you develop the skills and judgment you need to make split-second decisions under pressure. Proper training can mean the difference between resolving a situation peacefully and a negative outcome.
It equips you with the tools and knowledge to effectively protect yourself and the public.
The Fundamentals of Use of Force Training
At its core, the use of force training prioritizes de-escalation techniques.
These courses should provide a solid understanding of:
Legal Frameworks
Knowing the laws about the use of force in the area where you work is crucial.
This includes:
- Understanding when force is justified,
- What level of force is appropriate in different situations, and
- The potential consequences of using excessive force.
Use of Force Continuum
This provides a framework for understanding the escalating levels of force. Think moving from verbal commands and presence to physical control and, in extreme cases, deadly force.
Security personnel must be trained to assess threats accurately and choose the lowest level of force necessary to resolve a situation safely.
You'll learn to match your response to the level of threat you face.
Human Rights
Ethical use of force always respects the fundamental rights of people.
This means understanding the importance of avoiding discrimination and treating everyone with dignity, even in challenging circumstances.
Decision-Making
Perhaps the most critical aspect of use-of-force training is developing sound judgment.
You'll learn to assess situations quickly, identify threats, and make informed decisions under pressure.
Assessing Risks and Reducing Unnecessary Harm
In general, when using force, the situation will carry risks.
So, effective training emphasizes:
Threat Assessment
You'll learn to identify potential threats quickly and assess the level of risk aimed at you and others.
De-escalation Techniques
Whenever possible, the goal is to resolve situations without resorting to force.
Training should focus on verbal and non-verbal communication strategies to calm agitated individuals and reduce tension.
Duty of Care
Being in the security industry means you are responsible for minimizing harm, even when force is necessary.
This includes using the appropriate level of force, providing medical attention when needed, and continuously reassessing the situation as it evolves.
Situational Awareness
Maintaining awareness of your surroundings will help you anticipate potential dangers and make informed decisions.
De-escalation Techniques in Use of Force Training
- Verbal De-escalation. Use calm, respectful language, active listening skills, and empathy to build rapport and defuse tense situations.
- Non-Verbal Communication. Understanding how body language, positioning, and tone of voice can influence interactions and escalate or de-escalate a conflict.
- Tactical Communication. Combining verbal and non-verbal techniques to create distance, establish control, and influence the behaviour of individuals.
Ethical Use of Force in Action
Not every situation is black and white. That's why scenario-based training is so necessary. It enables you to practice your decision-making skills in a safe environment. This hands-on experience is invaluable in building confidence and competence.
For example, a training scenario might involve an agitated person refusing to comply with verbal commands. Do you immediately resort to force?
No!
Effective use of force training teaches you to assess the situation, try de-escalation techniques, and consider all options before resorting to physical intervention. But what if the individual becomes aggressive and threatens you or others? That's where your training kicks in.
You've learned various control holds, the appropriate use of less-lethal toolsThe Consequences of Inadequate Training Imagine not receiving proper training and misinterpreting a situation. This could escalate things unnecessarily or lead to the use of excessive force.
Making a mistake like this can lead to severe consequences – injuries, death, legal issues, and public fallout. That's why comprehensive, ethical training is non-negotiable.
How Guardian Outfitters Can Help
From security guards to police officers, everyone deserves to go home safely at the end of their shift.
That's why we have a comprehensive Use of Force Training Certificate course. It covers everything from legal frameworks and de-escalation techniques to tactical communication and scenario-based training.
Our course is designed to give you the confidence and competence to make the right call, especially under pressure. We combine practical skills with ethical decision-making so you're not just prepared to act but to act responsibly.