What are Tasers?

Taser is commonly used brand name of the Conducted Energy Devices that are currently used by Police forces across the UK. Tasers can be used in a number of progressive ways to de-escalate a potentially violent or dangerous situation whilst limiting and controlling the proportionate use of force.

A Taser is designed to provide frontline Officers with the ability to restrain potentially dangerous individuals and reduce the potential of threat or harm to themselves or to other individuals. Tactics available include the removal of the Taser from its holster, drawing, the aiming of the Taser, red dotting and finally if required the discharge of the Taser.

Tasers have been in use by Police Forces in the UK since 2004 and research shows that in 85% of Taser use, the tactic has stopped at drawing or red dotting and the situation controlled without the necessity for the Taser to be discharged.

Officers attending an incident, will firstly use verbal communication skills to de-escalate the situation, ongoing dynamic assessment will be applied and resorting to Taser tactics will only be used when there is an immediate threat or risk of harm. 

The device generates short bursts of electricity and delivers brief pulses upon contact, immobilising the person which significantly reduces injury risk to both the individual and the Officer.

In the UK, a Conducted Energy Device or Taser is classified as a ‘prohibited weapon’ in Section 5 of the Firearms Act 1968 and it is an offence for any member of the public to possess or use such a weapon.

Police Officers whilst acting in their capacity as such, are exempt from the requirements of the legislation.