During a secondary search, what is a critical factor for success?

Clear communication among team members is essential during a secondary search because it ensures that all members of the team are aware of their roles, objectives, and any potential hazards. Effective communication can coordinate the search efforts, avoid overlaps in coverage, and enhance overall safety by alerting team members to changes in the environment or any emerging threats. In situations where visibility is limited, such as those involving smoke or debris, clear communication becomes even more vital to maintain situational awareness and ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding their location and progress.

While the presence of equipment is important, and conditions like thick smoke impact safety, they do not substitute for the necessity of open lines of communication that facilitate a successful search operation. Rushing to complete the task can lead to oversights and dangerous situations, making careful, coordinated actions preferable.