Florida BRT Corrections - Officer Safety Practice Exam

Which search pattern involves starting from a center point and moving outward in circles?

1. Strip/line

2. Grid

3. Spiral

4. Zone/quadrant

The correct answer is: Spiral

The search pattern that involves starting from a center point and moving outward in circles is known as the spiral pattern. This method is particularly effective in environments where visibility is limited or when the area to be searched is relatively small. By beginning at a central point and gradually expanding the search outward, the searcher can effectively cover all areas while maintaining a systematic approach. Using a spiral pattern helps to ensure that no part of the area goes unchecked as the searcher moves outwards. It allows for a thorough exploration and often aids in uncovering clues or evidence that might be missed in more linear patterns. This technique is especially useful in situations where an object, person, or evidence might not be evenly distributed throughout the area. The other search patterns—such as strip/line, grid, and zone/quadrant—follow different methodologies. For instance, the strip or line pattern involves searching in straight lines across the area, while the grid pattern consists of overlapping parallel lines. The zone/quadrant approach divides the search area into sections to manage the search more efficiently. However, none of these methods utilize a circular outward movement from a central point, which is characteristic of the spiral search technique.