Police need to follow certain principles and norms when using riot shields to ensure that their use complies with legal, humanitarian, and ethical requirements and can achieve the expected results. Here are some guidelines for how police should use riot shields:
The use of shields should be an unavoidable means
When facing violence or danger, police should prioritize non violent methods to control the situation. Only when it is impossible to maintain public order and protect oneself and others through other means should riot shields be used.
The use of shields should comply with legal and human rights requirements
When using riot shields, police should comply with national laws and international human rights regulations to ensure that their use does not have adverse effects on personal safety and human rights. Police must master relevant laws and regulations when using shields, and provide sufficient training and preparation before use.
The use of shields should be necessary, moderate, and limited
Police should use riot shields in a necessary, moderate, and limited manner, that is, only when necessary, with moderate force and limited usage time. Police should pay attention to controlling the strength and skills when using shields to avoid unnecessary harm to unrelated personnel and property.
The use of shields should consider the surrounding environment and situation
When using riot shields, police should consider the surrounding environment and situation in order to choose the appropriate method and techniques for use. For example, when using a shield in narrow or densely populated areas, attention should be paid to the surrounding people and objects to avoid unnecessary harm to others and public property.
The use of shields requires coordination with other police officers
When using riot shields, the police need to coordinate and cooperate with other police officers to ensure the coordination and effectiveness of the action. The police need to engage in sufficient communication and negotiation, clarify their respective tasks and responsibilities, and ensure mutual support and cooperation.
In short, riot shields are one of the essential equipment for police officers when carrying out tasks. However, the use of riot shields must comply with legal, human rights, and ethical requirements, and must be used within necessary, moderate, and limited limits, taking into account the surrounding environment and situation. At the same time, before using shields, police officers need to undergo sufficient training and preparation, master relevant laws, skills, and operating methods, in order to improve the effectiveness of using shields and reduce possible risks.