California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CDCR Practice Questions and Study Guide

Immediate force is considered appropriate when there is an imminent threat to safety. This determination stems from the imperative to protect individuals, whether they are officers, inmates, or the public, from harm in situations where there is not enough time to use de-escalation techniques or other non-forceful methods. Understanding imminent threats includes recognizing behaviors or events that pose a risk of serious injury or loss of life; therefore, taking immediate action is necessary to neutralize that threat quickly and effectively.

In circumstances where control can be achieved over time or compliance can be obtained without the use of force, the response should prioritize verbal communication and negotiation techniques, thereby minimizing the need for physical confrontation. Additionally, if there is a delay in response time, it may indicate that other measures could be employed rather than resorting to immediate force. The principle guiding the use of force is to ensure safety and prevent harm, emphasizing that force should only be used when absolutely necessary to avert an imminent danger.