Which of the following actions should be prioritized during an IED discovery?

Prioritizing the control of the surrounding area during an IED discovery is critical for ensuring the safety of personnel and minimizing further risk. By establishing a secure perimeter, personnel can protect themselves and civilians from potential hazards associated with the IED, such as secondary devices or blast effects. Controlling the area allows for the safe assessment of the device, as well as the planning and execution of a response, which may include evacuation or neutralization of the IED.

Moreover, controlling the area ensures that unauthorized individuals do not enter a potentially dangerous zone, thereby further reducing the risk of injury or casualties. It creates a structured environment where responders can perform necessary tasks without the interference of onlookers or additional hazards introduced by unsecured access.

While communicating with command and beginning forensic investigations are indeed important actions, they should occur after ensuring the area is secure. Immediate detonation of the device is typically a last resort and not usually an initial action during the discovery phase, as it may pose unnecessary risks.