What is the correct order of the Levels of Use of Force Continuum?

The Levels of Use of Force Continuum is designed to guide law enforcement and security personnel in responding appropriately to different situations, ensuring that the level of force used is proportional to the threat faced. The correct order of the continuum starts with the least amount of force and escalates to the most, which aligns with the principles of de-escalation and the appropriate use of force.

Beginning with "Presence," officers establish their authority and deter potential threats simply by being visible. Next is "Verbal commands," where officers communicate with individuals clearly in an attempt to de-escalate the situation without physical intervention. Following that is "Soft control," which may involve physical techniques that do not cause pain, such as joint locks or light holds. Finally, "Hard control" involves more aggressive techniques that may cause discomfort, such as takedowns or strikes, applied when necessary.

This progression reflects a systematic approach to force application, prioritizing options that minimize harm and encourage compliance without escalating the situation unnecessarily. The sequence also emphasizes that force should only be escalated if previous, less aggressive strategies have proven inadequate.