Batons are short, sturdy sticks used by law enforcement and security personnel for self-defense and crowd control. Typically made of materials like wood, plastic, or metal, they can vary in length and weight. Batons are designed to be easily carried and can be used to strike, block, or control an individual during an altercation. In addition to their use by police, batons are also common in various sports, such as relay races, where they are passed between runners. In this context, a baton is often made of lightweight materials and is designed for speed and ease of handling, contributing to the overall performance of the team.