Which are components of the Use of Force Continuum?

• A. Verbal commands only.
• B. Verbal commands, hands-on control, or compliance techniques, less-lethal options and, if necessary, deadly force, chosen based on threat level and policy.
• C. Firearms only.
• D. Physical force only.

Answer: (B)

The Use of Force Continuum describes a graduated set of options an officer may use to address a threat, selecting the level that is necessary and proportional to the situation. It starts with clear verbal commands to gain compliance, then moves to hands-on control or compliance techniques to physically restrain or guide a person. If resistance continues or the threat remains, less-lethal options are employed to deter or control without causing serious injury. Only after considering the threat level, safety, and policy would deadly force be used as a last resort. This framework shows that the continuum is about a spectrum of responses, not just one tool.

That’s why the best answer includes verbal commands, hands-on control or compliance techniques, less-lethal options, and, if necessary, deadly force—chosen based on threat level and policy. The other options fall short because they imply the continuum is limited to a single mode of response (verbal commands only, firearms only, or physical force only) and omit the other components that make up a complete, proportional response.