During planning, investigators should evaluate hazards of the area and what safety measures may be necessary.

• A. The hazards of the area and what safety measures may be necessary
• B. The suspects’ criminal history
• C. The weather forecast
• D. The time of day

Answer: (A)

Identifying hazards in the area and deciding which safety measures are necessary is the essential focus of planning. By spotting risks—such as unstable structures, environmental dangers, or armed suspects—the team can determine PPE needs, access routes, perimeter control, communications, and the number of responders required before entering. While weather forecasts and time of day can influence how those safety measures are implemented, they do not replace the need to assess hazards and specify protective actions. A suspect’s criminal history has no bearing on the immediate safety planning for the operation.