Patrol Lane
ESB4

PROGRESSIVE LEVELS OF FORCE

8 minutes

Conditions: You are securing a critical area and are approached by one or more hostile individuals. You have weapon, PPE, and ROE.

Understanding This Task

This task tests your ability to apply the escalation of force continuum: Presence > Soft Control > Hard Control > Lethal Force. You must de-escalate as the threat decreases and always use minimum force necessary.

5 S's for detainees: Search, Silence, Segregate, Safeguard, Speed to the rear.

Professional demeanor is graded throughout the entire task.

Common NO-GO Mistakes

  • Using excessive force for the threat level
  • Instigating, threatening, provoking, or bluffing
  • Not de-escalating as threat decreases
  • Unprofessional demeanor

Task Basis: 171-COM-0011

Timer: 8 Minutes
8:00
Critical Notes
  • Presence > Soft > Hard > Lethal. De-escalate as threat decreases.
  • ROE always applies — may use any level including deadly force if circumstances require.
  • Minimum force necessary to control the situation.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES

0/6 GO
  1. 1

    Assess the situation — identify level of hostile threat

    • Verbal threats.
    • Physical without weapons (touching, pushing).
    • Physical with weapons (rocks, clubs, spitting).
    • Physical with firearms shown.
    • Physical with firearms used.
  2. 2

    Report situation immediately to section/team leader

  3. 3

    Protect yourself against hazards

    • Use full-face shields.
    • Use double layer latex gloves.
  4. 4

    Isolate hostile(s) if required

    • Identify hostile group sphere of influence.
    • Remove individual with most influence.
    • Use 5 S's: Search, Silence, Segregate, Safeguard, Speed to the rear.
  5. 5

    Employ graduated response measures CRITICAL

    • Avoid confrontation if possible.
    • Do NOT instigate, threaten, provoke, or bluff.
    • Speak sternly, state peaceful intent.
    • Tell individual to "STAND BACK" — warn force may be used.
    • If hands placed on you: brush back with hand/PPE.
    • If bodily harm attempted: use authorized materials to impede.
    • Use individual weapon if necessary per ROE.
  6. 6

    Establish and maintain control

    • Comply with ROE, host-nation requirements, international treaties.
    • Minimize casualties and damage.
    • Maintain professional demeanor and appearance.
ESB3: Search Detainee ESB5: Mark CBRN Areas