Which location is included for search marks?

• A. The lower third of the door, the lower third of the adjacent wall, or in the landing of the adjacent stairs
• B. On the ceiling
• C. On the floor
• D. On the opposite wall

Answer: (A)

Focusing on where search marks go helps teammates quickly confirm what areas have been searched and guide movements through the space. The standard spots—lower third of the door, the lower third of the adjacent wall, or on the landing of the adjacent stairs—are chosen because they sit right at the entry and are easy to spot as you approach a room or move between connected areas. Placing marks low keeps them within the typical line of sight and less likely to be obscured by clutter or debris, and marking the landing of an adjacent stair helps indicate that the adjoining area has also been checked.

Choosing the ceiling, floor, or the opposite wall is less reliable: the ceiling can be blocked by debris, the floor may be covered or hazardous, and the opposite wall might not be visible from the doorway or could be out of the main viewing path.