Division Firearms

Statutory staff deployed as members of the teams shall not use firearms against persons, except in the following circumstances, and only when less extreme means are insufficient to achieve the necessary objectives:

• the use of firearms by statutory staff deployed as members of the teams is a last resort in an extreme emergency, especially if there is any risk that bystanders might be endangered,

• the use of firearms by statutory staff deployed as members of the teams is necessary to defend themselves or others against an imminent threat of death or serious injury,

• the use of firearms by statutory staff deployed as members of the teams is to prevent an imminent threat of death or serious injury,

• the use of firearms by statutory staff deployed as members of the teams is to repel an actual attack or prevent an impending dangerous attack on essential institutions, services or facilities.

Prior to the use of firearms, statutory staff deployed as members of the teams must give a clear warning of their intention to use such firearms. Warnings may be given orally or by the firing of warning shots.