In what situation can a guard use 'deadly force'?

Using deadly force is a critical and serious matter governed by strict legal standards. The correct choice is based on the principle that deadly force can only be employed in situations where there is an immediate, life-threatening attack. In such instances, the guard is justified in taking this extreme measure to protect their own life or the life of another person who is in imminent danger.

For example, if a guard observes someone actively attempting to inflict serious bodily harm or kill another person, the guard has a legal and moral obligation to intervene to prevent that harm, using deadly force if necessary. This aligns with the doctrine of self-defense or defense of others, which allows for the use of deadly force only when there is no reasonable alternative to prevent the threat.

The other choices reflect situations where deadly force would not be justified. Using deadly force to prevent property damage does not meet the legal threshold; property is not valued above human life. Apprehending a fleeing suspect usually does not justify deadly force unless there is a credible threat to life. Furthermore, acting solely under direct orders from a supervisor does not automatically provide justification for using deadly force, as the situation and the immediate threat must dictate that level of response.