What describes Immediate Use of Force?

Immediate Use of Force refers to the application of force in response to a situation that poses an imminent threat to safety or security. This response is characterized by its immediacy and urgency, necessitating swift action to prevent harm to individuals or to regain control of a volatile situation. In this context, officers are trained to evaluate situations quickly and respond decisively when there is a clear and present danger, such as an attack on staff or inmates, a riot, or any scenario where an individual's safety is at risk.

The nature of Immediate Use of Force means that it is carried out without the lengthy planning or assessment that a situation requiring other types of force may entail. While some situations do require an assessment and may involve planned tactics, Immediate Use of Force emphasizes the necessity of responding instantly to threats rather than deliberating the appropriate course of action. Additionally, this type of force is intended to address situations where immediate action is essential, rather than being viewed entirely as a last resort. Physical restraint with no communication also does not encapsulate the nature of Immediate Use of Force, which always involves the goal of ensuring safety while employing the most appropriate level of force necessary to control the situation.