What do searchers primarily look for during the investigation phase?

During the investigation phase, searchers focus primarily on discovering clues left by the subject. This phase is crucial because these clues can provide vital information about the subject's last known whereabouts, their state of mind, and potential directions they may have traveled. These details can significantly aid in formulating an effective search strategy and understanding the circumstances surrounding the disappearance.

In the context of a search operation, clues may include items such as personal belongings, signs of human presence, or any markings that indicate the subject's path. Collecting this type of information allows searchers to utilize their resources more effectively and increases the likelihood of locating the individual.

While other factors, such as nearby witnesses, equipment left behind, and search team feedback, can contribute to the understanding of a situation, they are not the primary focus during the investigation phase. Instead, the critical task is to gather any direct evidence that the subject might have left, which can ultimately guide the search efforts.