Firearms and Subject Control Flashcards

According to OPOTA training, what are the four fundamental rules of firearms safety?

Answer: Treat every firearm as loaded, never point at anything you don't intend to destroy, keep finger off trigger until ready to fire, know your target and what's beyond it

The four universal firearms safety rules ensure safe handling in all circumstances.

Under Graham v. Connor (1989), what standard evaluates an officer's use of force?

Answer: Objective reasonableness under the Fourth Amendment

Graham v. Connor established that use of force is judged under the Fourth Amendment's objective reasonableness standard.

What is the OPOTA-defined 'use of force continuum' and its purpose?

Answer: A progressive framework guiding officers to match force level to the threat encountered

The continuum provides a framework for matching force level to resistance or threat encountered.

Under Tennessee v. Garner (1985), when may an officer use deadly force to prevent a fleeing suspect's escape?

Answer: Only when the officer has probable cause to believe the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical harm

Tennessee v. Garner allows deadly force against a fleeing suspect only when there is probable cause of a significant threat of death or serious harm.

What is 'sympathetic fire' and why is it a concern in law enforcement?

Answer: An involuntary trigger pull caused by hearing another officer's gunshot or reflexive grip contraction

Sympathetic fire occurs when an officer involuntarily discharges their weapon in response to hearing gunfire or reflexive muscle contraction.

What is the OPOTA-recommended procedure for conducting a tactical reload?

Answer: Retain the partially loaded magazine while inserting a full one during a lull

A tactical reload involves retaining the partial magazine while inserting a full one, preserving remaining ammunition.