What is the primary purpose of warning shots?

The primary purpose of warning shots is to determine intent and/or deter threat. When a shot is fired as a warning, it serves as a means to communicate to the potential threat that their actions are being observed and that they are at risk of escalation if they continue. This action can help prevent further aggression or conflict without necessarily engaging in direct confrontation, allowing individuals to assess the situation more clearly.

In the context of threat assessment, warning shots function as a tool to gauge the response of the threatening individual while simultaneously conveying a clear message about the seriousness of the situation. Rather than escalating to lethal force, this practice aims to resolve confrontations peacefully by encouraging the other party to reconsider their intentions or actions.