What should be your first step upon discovering a clue during a search?

The first step upon discovering a clue during a search is to determine if the object is relevant. This crucial action involves assessing the context of the clue and its potential connection to the search operation. Understanding its relevance helps in making informed decisions about the next steps, ensuring that resources are allocated wisely and the search remains efficient.

Identifying relevance also supports the accountability of evidence. Handling an item too quickly or carelessly without understanding its significance could compromise its value in establishing a timeline or connection to the subject of the search. Additionally, understanding the clue's context supports ongoing situational awareness, which is vital in any search and rescue operation.

Careful consideration of the clue allows searchers to maintain the integrity of the evidence, which might be needed later for analysis or in legal contexts. Therefore, determining the relevance of a clue is the most responsible and effective approach when new information is uncovered during a search.