BSIS Firearms Training Manual - October 2001 Edition

 Firearm Training Manual  24

student can not comply with this condition and responsibility, then do not participate in this training course and do not carry a weapon on duty. A guard may be held responsible, criminally prosecuted and sentenced to prison for using a firearm on duty if there was not a clear and immediate threat to the guard’s life or to another person’s life. A primary objective of firearm training is to clearly communicate that a firearm may be used only to protect and preserve life.

The Protection and Preservation of Life: Requirements for Use of Deadly Force:

1. A firearm may be used only when there is a clear and present danger to life.
2. A firearm may be used only when other defensive methods are inappropriate or have failed.

A FIREARM MUST NEVER BE USED FOR ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:

1. To apprehend a fleeing suspect.
2. To demonstrate authority.
3. To psychologically "impress" others.
4. As an aggressive or offensive weapon.

AVOID POTENTIAL DANGER AND DO NOT:

1. Handle a firearm recklessly.
2. Practice an unauthorized and unsafe "quick-draw."
3. Draw a firearm to frighten someone.
4. Fire a warning shot.
5. Fire at suspicious objects (such as movement in a brush or in the direction of a strange noise).
6. Fail to thoroughly examine the physical condition of all firearm parts, including ammunition.

A firearm may be used ONLY if there is an imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury to the guard or to another person and there is no other option available to avoid or neutralize the danger.

Each student is expected to be familiar with each section of this manual. The instructor is expected to adequately cover each section to assure that the student has had the opportunity to review and understand the material and the law and what consequences may follow for violating the law.