4. STEPS DURING CEW DEPLOYMENT                                  
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General                                  
Officers should provide verbal commands during and after the CEW application.
(TI v.12)		     √                            
CEW deployment protocol: probe mode                                  
Probe hits are more desirable than stun mode because probe hits are more effective (neuromuscular incapactitation [NMI] vs. pain compliance), can be √ √     √ √         √     √ √   √
applied from a safer distance, usually require fewer cycles, and fewer injuries result. (TI v.13, v.14)
Aiming and distance considerations                                  
Training materials include general guidelines about probe distance and spread considerations. (TI v. 11, v.12, v.13)     √ √     √ √ √ √ √   √ √   √ √
Aim CEW like a standard firearm at centre of mass. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13)     √ √       √   √ √     √   √ √
Aim CEW at target—centre of mass or legs. (TI v. 14) √ √     √ √                 √    
Use sights and/or laser. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13)     √ √       √   √ √     √   √ √
A general spread consideration is 1 foot (0.3 m) of spread for every 7 feet (2.1 m) of travel. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13)     √ √       √   √ √     √   √ √
Greater probe spread increases effectiveness. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
If possible, aim for a minimum 4-inch spread.  (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
Hold the CEW vertically unless subject is laying down or at an angle. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
Primary CEW targets include torso (centre of mass) back and shoulders, buttocks, hips, legs.             √   √                
The entire back is a good target for the CEW. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √     √   √   √ √ √   √
The back is a good target because clothing fits tighter, there is a surprise factor, the back contains stronger muscles to achieve greater NMI, and avoids sensitive target areas such as eyes and groin. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
For deployments from zero to 7 feet (0-2 metres), there is a high hit probability, but limited probe spread and as a result there will be low amounts of muscle mass √ √     √ √         √     √ √   √
affected. In addition, there is a short reactionary distance between subject and deployer. Consider targeting area to put one probe above the waist and one
below the waist for enhanced effectiveness. (TI v.13, v.14)
Deployments from 7 to 15 feet (2-4.5 metres) are considered “optimum range” because there is a high hit probability, good probe spread, and therefore a good √ √     √ √     √   √     √ √   √
amount of muscle mass affected. In addition, there will likely be plenty of slack in wires (with 21-foot or 25-foot cartridges), and a good reactionary distance.
(TI v.13, v.14)
Deployments from 15 to 35 feet (4.5-10.67 metres) have a fair hit probability with both probes, a large probe spread, and a large amount of muscle affected. √ √     √ √         √     √ √   √
There is less slack in wires and a large reactionary distance. (TI v.13, v.14)
CEW deployment protocol: drive-stun mode                                  
Drive-stun mode is a pain compliance tool, and this mode does not cause NMI. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √ √   √ √   √
The drive-stun can be used when in close proximity to subject. The muzzle of the CEW is pressed to the subject’s body.                       √          
Stun mode is deployed by pressing the CEW onto preferred push-stun locations using the overhand grip technique.       √           √           √  
Because of the potential for the stun to slide off of the subject, officers frequently find themselves in prolonged struggles with violent suspects whom they end up √ √     √ √         √     √ √   √
drive-stunning several times in several different locations. This often results in multiple discharges and numerous signature marks and scratches on the suspect’s
body. It is in these types of scenarios that officers often face accusations of excessive force. Although officers are usually justified in their use of force and
the CEW device in these cases, many of them could have avoided problems by using probes to incapacitate the suspect and allow fellow officers to restrain him
without further struggles. Officers will not always have the option of using probes. When this is the case, they should attempt to target the drive-stun to appropriate
pressure points in an attempt to get the suspect restrained as quickly as possible.
(TI v.13, v.14)
Effective drive-stun target areas                                  
Carotid area. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
Brachial artery area. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
Brachial plexus tie-in. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
Radial. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
Pelvis. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √ √   √   √   √ √ √   √
Common peroneal. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
Upper mid calf. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
Large muscle masses and nerve endings.             √   √       √        
Below the cervical portion of the spine is the thoracic vertebrae which continues to the lower lumbar.  This area is protected by large muscles and provides a good area for push-stuns.                 √                
Do not hold on to live cartridge while applying a drive-stun because if cartridge gets within 2 inches of CEW or suspect it may deploy. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √     √   √     √ √   √
If the drive-stun is not effective at first instance, officers may consider an
additional cycle. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14)		 √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
If drive-stun is not effective, evaluate location, consider an additional cycle to a different pressure point, or consider alternative force options. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √     √   √ √ √ √ √   √
Someone in a mental-health crisis state, under the influence of a mind-altering substance, or extremely focused are prone to “mind-body disconnection.”                 √                
If only the push-stun mode is used, the CEW becomes a pain compliance technique with limited threat reduction potential for subjects at the high end of the three
mind-body disconnect categories.  Push the drive-stun aggressively into the subject for best results.
CEW deployment protocol: drive-stun with cartridge mode                                  
Probe deployment with a drive-stun follow-up is suggested for probe hits that are close together or for when only one probe makes contact with the subject. (TI v.13, v.14) √ √     √ √         √     √ √   √
Probes released during a drive-stun with cartridge can help maintain contact with a violent suspect. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √ √   √   √   √ √ √   √
Officer may subsequently apply a drive-stun away from probes to achieve NMI.
(TI v.12, v.13, v.14)		 √ √ √   √ √ √   √   √   √ √ √   √
Length of cycle                                  
Single trigger pull discharges current for 5-second cycle.  (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √ √   √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
A full 5-second cycle deployment should be applied without interruption (unless circumstances dictate otherwise). (TI v.12)     √                            
Move safety switch down (SAFE) to immediately stop a discharge (e.g., if the CEW is accidentally discharged). (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √     √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
Although some officers shut off the unit before completion of the first 5-second cycle, officers should let the CEW run the full cycle in order to reduce the probability of a field failure. (TI v.12)     √                            
Trigger pulls during the 5-second cycle will not affect the cycle unless held continuously. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √     √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
Holding the trigger continuously beyond the 5-second cycle will continue the electrical discharge until trigger is released. The discharge will cease immediately once the trigger is released. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √     √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
CEW operator should be prepared to apply additional cycles if necessary. (TI v.12)     √                            
Do not hold the trigger continuously beyond the 5-second cycle.                         √        
Controlling/cuffing under power                                  
Each CEW cycle is a “window of opportunity” to attempt to establish control and restraint while the subject is affected or incapacitated by the CEW cycle.
(TI v.12, v.13, v.14)		 √ √ √   √ √         √ √ √ √ √   √
Cuffing under power is important because there are those who may not comply with verbal commands following CEW cycle (such as EDPs [emotionally disturbed √ √     √ √         √     √ √   √
persons], focused or intoxicated persons, and individuals suffering from excited delirium.) (TI v.13, v.14)
Cuffing under power is important because it may prevent the need for multiple CEW cycles. (TI v.13, v.14) √ √     √ √         √ √   √ √   √
Officers need to subdue and cuff without hesitation, and can touch and handcuff the subject while the CEW is active. (TI v.12)     √                            
Officers should move in and control the subject while the CEW device is cycling and the subject is incapacitated when it is reasonably safe to do so. (TI v.13, v.14) √ √     √ √ √       √     √ √   √
A second officer gains control and handcuffs during the CEW cycle.                         √        
Always handcuffed to rear.                 √       √     √  
Other considerations and tactics                                  
Wires can break easily if stepped on or pulled; inadvertent contact with wires or √ √ √ √ √ √ √     √ √   √ √ √ √ √
the probe during discharge can result in electrical shock; CEW operators should advise officers to avoid wires during restraint for wire integrity. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14)
Avoid crossing wires when multiple CEW devices are deployed. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √   √ √ √   √
Note that the effect of contact with a wire or probe while taking a suspect into custody is relatively minor and will not cause NMI to the officer.  Usually,                         √        
officers will instinctively pull their hand away.  It is recommended that officers grab the suspect in a different area, away from the probes and the wires;
operators should lift the wires off the ground and may have to walk forward if the subject falls or is running.  This may prevent the wires from breaking.
The CEW operator must keep sufficient slack in wires and move with the subject if they start to roll. (TI v.13, v.14) √ √     √ √ √       √     √ √   √
Officers must run with the subject if they are to utilize the CEW against a running target.                 √                
If there is only one probe hit or low spread after CEW deployment, consider a
drive-stun follow-up. (TI v.13, v.14)		 √ √     √ √         √     √ √   √
Deploy the CEW with a second air cartridge available or have a second CEW nearby. If first shot fails or misses, obtain cover to reload or resort to another √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
tactic; if suspect charges, “C” step and aggressively use the drive-stun mode.
(TI v.12, v.13, v.14)
If air cartridge is a “dud,” (does not deploy) keep weapon aimed upon target while placing the CEW on SAFE. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √       √ √     √ √ √ √
If air cartridge is a “dud,” discard immediately, reload with new cartridge, and re-engage target; do not attempt to reuse a dud. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
When evaluating the effectiveness of a CEW deployment, look for the subject’s reaction including change in behaviour, falling to the ground, and going rigid; √ √ √   √ √     √   √     √ √   √
and listen to the sound of the CEW device because no sound may indicate a good connection, loud arcing at the weapon may indicate no connection, and
intermittent arcing at the weapon may indicate a poor connection (due to, for example, clothing disconnect). (TI v.12, v.13, v.14)
If there is no reaction or change in subject behaviour, this could indicate poor or no connection, low probe spread, or low muscle mass contact. Suggested tactical √ √     √ √         √     √ √   √
considerations to deal with such a situation include reloading and targeting a different area, deploying a drive-stun with a cartridge in place and consider other force options. (TI v.13, v.14)
The CEW electrical current is relatively quiet in actual human use. Practice targets are loud since the energy is arcing in the air.       √           √           √  
In dealing with suicidal subjects, follow department basic officer safety rules/training and establish lethal cover as needed. (TI v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √   √ √         √     √ √   √
Common effects of NMI that results from CEW probe deployment upon a subject                        
Subject can fall immediately to the ground. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
Yelling or screaming. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
Involuntary muscle contractions. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
Subject may freeze in place with legs locked. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
Most subjects will not fall down. The majority freeze in place, and shake.                 √       √        
Subject may feel dazed for several seconds/minutes. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √     √ √ √ √
Potential vertigo. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
Temporary tingling sensation. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √   √   √ √     √ √ √ √
May experience critical stress amnesia. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √   √ √ √ √ √
May not remember any pain. (TI v.11, v.12, v.13, v.14) √ √ √ √ √ √   √   √ √     √ √ √ √
May urinate and/or defecate, but usually this happens only if the subject is actively holding his/her bladder, etc.                 √       √        
Generally does not cause urination or defacation.       √           √           √  
Does not cause “electrocution” in wet environment.       √           √           √