Which of the following is NOT a CBRN locate technique?

• A. Zigzag
• B. Lane
• C. Cloverleaf
• D. Spiral

Answer: (D)

Locating a CBRN release relies on patterns that systematically sweep the area while keeping the team safe and maintaining clear coverage of all sectors. Zigzag sweeping moves through the field in a broad, shifting path, quickly expanding coverage and helping map where contamination is found relative to wind direction. Lane searches run in parallel strips, which is very efficient for wide-open terrain and makes it easy to keep team members spaced and to decontaminate along straight-line boundaries. Cloverleaf uses a multi-angled, four-lobed approach around a suspected source, so data from different directions can be combined to confirm plume boundaries and concentration levels.

Spiral isn’t used as a locate pattern because it starts at a point and expands outward in circles, which can leave gaps between passes and makes it harder to coordinate with teammates, adjust to wind shifts, or re-check areas quickly. This can slow detection and increase exposure risk, so it’s not considered a standard CBRN locate technique.