In the use of force continuum, which of the following is an example of the less-lethal use of force?

• A. Use of a baton
• B. Verbal commands
• C. Firing a pistol
• D. Shoving

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that the use of force continuum guides officers to escalate force in a controlled way, using options that are less likely to cause serious harm before moving to deadly force. A baton is a designed, intermediate tool used to gain control or create separation with controlled impacts, aiming to stop an aggressive action without intending to kill. It fits squarely in the less-lethal category because it provides a physical method to compel compliance that is more than verbal commands but not intended to cause lethal harm when used properly. Verbal commands are even less forceful since they don’t involve physical impact, and firing a pistol is deadly force, while shoving is a basic hand-held or empty-hand technique that can cause harm but isn’t the specific tool-based, controlled option highlighted here.