When conducting a 5/25 search, when should the searcher dismount the vehicle?

Dismounting the vehicle after the engine is turned off is a critical step in conducting a 5/25 search because it ensures the safety of the searcher. When the engine is running, there's a risk of additional noise or vibrations that could potentially trigger a concealed improvised explosive device (IED) or distract the searcher from their task. By turning off the engine first, the area becomes quieter, allowing for a more focused and thorough search.

In situations where the searcher dismounted while driving slowly, there could be an increased risk of accidental injury or exposure to threats, as the vehicle may not be secured and the searcher may still be vulnerable to oncoming traffic or other hazards. Dismounting immediately upon arrival at the site without proper situational awareness or before ensuring the engine is off could expose the searcher to unnecessary risks. Similarly, waiting for an instruction from the vehicle commander may not always be the best choice if the commander’s attention is diverted or if the situation requires immediate action and assessment. Thus, turning off the engine and then dismounting ensures both safety and readiness to effectively conduct the search.