check fire

Beginner 🎖️ Military / Defense

Definition

Command to immediately cease firing weapons, often issued to prevent fratricide or civilian casualties. The phrase that turns chaos into silence faster than anything else in combat.

Example Usage

Check fire! Check fire! Friendlies in the target area!

Origin

Standard fire control terminology dating to organized military forces

Fun Fact

The only command more urgent than 'check fire' is 'incoming,' and both will make experienced troops react before conscious thought processes even engage.

Source: Fire control and safety procedures

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