Which principle requires measuring the amount of force used and using only what is necessary to protect lives and accomplish the mission?

• A. Measure the amount of force used; use only the amount necessary to protect lives and accomplish the mission
• B. Always deploy maximum force
• C. Use only verbal warnings
• D. Never use force

Answer: (C)

Proportionality and necessity govern how much force is used in protective operations. You assess the threat and apply only the amount needed to neutralize it, protecting lives and achieving the mission, while adjusting the level of force as the situation changes. Verbal warnings and de-escalation are important tools, but they may not be sufficient if there is an imminent threat, so relying solely on warnings isn’t adequate. Conversely, always using maximum force ignores the need to limit harm, and never using force would leave you unable to protect people or complete the objective. The principle that emphasizes using only what is necessary to protect lives and accomplish the mission best fits.