What is the primary action to take when identifying a suspicious package?

Evaluating the surroundings is crucial when identifying a suspicious package because it allows officers to gather valuable information regarding the context in which the package is found. This includes assessing the area for potential threats, determining if there are people nearby who could be at risk, and looking for any unusual behavior connected to the package. Understanding the environment helps in making informed decisions about how to handle the situation safely and effectively.

While other actions like notifying a bomb squad or calling for backup may eventually be necessary depending on the situation, they follow the initial step of assessing the surroundings. This foundational evaluation is essential to ensure the safety of both the officers and the public before any further action is taken. Moving the package or immediately calling for backup without properly assessing the context could lead to unnecessary risk.