When should a 5/25 search be conducted?

Conducting a 5/25 search is crucial in contexts where there is a heightened risk of explosive threats. This search technique is specifically designed for situations where a vehicle halts in an area that is not free from explosive hazards. Such an environment could present a potential risk to personnel and equipment if an improvised explosive device (IED) were to be present. The 5/25 search allows for thorough inspection protocols to be employed to identify and mitigate potential threats before proceeding further.

The nature of the 5/25 search involves two distinct phases: the first should be done within the first 5 meters of the point where the vehicle stops, and the second within the next 25 meters. This method ensures that immediate areas of concern are assessed for any IED threats. By performing this search in areas known to potentially harbor hazards, it improves mission safety and operational effectiveness, allowing personnel to identify and neutralize threats before they can cause harm.