What is the first step in the use of force continuum against non-compliant vessels?

The use of force continuum is a systematic approach to responding to non-compliant vessels, prioritizing de-escalation and compliance before resorting to more aggressive measures. The first step, command presence, involves demonstrating authority and control in a situation to encourage compliance from the non-compliant vessel.

Command presence is essential because it establishes the officer's position and intention without the immediate need for force. A solid command presence includes factors such as posture, mannerisms, and tone of voice, all of which contribute to persuading individuals on the non-compliant vessel to comply voluntarily. By relying on this initial step, officers can often resolve situations without escalating to more forceful tactics, thereby ensuring safety and minimizing confrontation.

In contrast, employing warnings and warning shots comes into play only after establishing command presence fails to elicit compliance. Similarly, disable and disrupt tactics are further along the continuum and should only be considered when all previous options have been exhausted to promote safety and effective resolutions. The emphasis on command presence as the first step reinforces the principle of using minimal force while maximizing the potential for cooperation.