What are intermediate weapons?

Intermediate weapons refer to devices or tools used by law enforcement, including the Coast Guard, that are designed to incapacitate an individual or control a situation with a lower likelihood of lethality compared to firearms. These weapons are typically utilized in scenarios where the use of deadly force is not justified, yet a higher level of control is required than what can be achieved through simple verbal commands or physical restraint.

The correct choice highlights the nature of intermediate weapons as tools that can potentially cause injury if used. Examples include batons, pepper spray, or tasers. These weapons are intended to be non-lethal—or less lethal—alternatives to firearms, striking a balance between the need for control and the obligation to minimize harm. In high-stress situations, these tools allow authorized personnel to maintain order and protect themselves while reducing the risk of fatal outcomes for all involved.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the concept of intermediate weapons. Approaches that foster cooperation refer more to strategies aimed at negotiation and conflict resolution, while techniques for conflict resolution focus on de-escalating confrontations without aggressive measures. Methods of self-defense without physical contact lean towards the realm of verbal de-escalation, which is fundamentally different from the physical tools categorized as intermediate weapons.