Preselect the routes to the assembly area, but devise a system to inform personnel of the location of the suspected IED and alternate routes. Assembly areas should be preselected and well known to personnel. Establish a clearly defined procedure for controlling, marshaling, and checking personnel within the assembly area. If buildings or establishments are in a public area, coordinate the assembly areas with local police. Locate assembly areas in areas where there is little chance of an IED being hidden.
Open spaces are best.
Avoid parking areas because IEDs can be easily hidden in vehicles. Select alternate assembly areas to reduce the likelihood of ambush with a second device or small-arms fire. If possible, search the assembly area before personnel occupy the space. Avoid locating assembly areas near expanses of plate glass or windows. Blast effects can cause windows to be sucked outward rather than blown inward.