Crossing danger areas - UNITAF Force Manual (FM)
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Crossing danger areas



FM/G233 - Crossing danger areas
Guide
FM/BG-1081 - Recognising danger Areas
Guide

Danger areas are terrain features that expose friendly forces to heightened risk from enemy fire.

These may include:

  • Bridges, streams, open lanes, streets, or other open spaces.
  • Often observed or covered by enemy forces, including snipers or machine gunners.

Danger areas must be identified early and treated with deliberate caution.

Guide
FM/BG-1082 - Principles of crossing danger areas
Guide

Crossing a danger area is conducted using bounding overwatch principles.

  • Cross in small elements to avoid detection and reduce exposure.
  • Maintain continuous security throughout the process.
  • Movement techniques used are an extension of basic infantry manoeuvre principles.
Guide
FM/BG-1083 - Danger area crossing procedure
Guide

Step 1: Establish security

  • Form a security element to cover the danger area before attempting to cross.
  • Use at least half the force to provide overwatch.
  • Ensure wide spacing to reduce visibility.
  • Security observes flanks, rear, and the danger area itself.

 

Step 2: Scout the far side

  • Send a scout element to cross and clear the far side.
  • Typically fireteam-sized.
  • Conduct limited penetration to check for threats.
  • Provide overwatch for main body during their crossing.

 

Step 3: Controlled crossing

  • Once scouts report clear, remaining elements cross sequentially.
  • Cross one element at a time.
  • Maintain spacing and speed.
  • Do not bunch up or rush the crossing.

 

Step 4: Consolidate after crossing

  • Once all elements are across, regroup and continue the mission.
  • Re-establish control and situational awareness.
  • Ensure no one is left behind or disoriented.
Guide
FM/BG-1084 - Crossing under fire
Guide

If taking fire during the crossing, shift to emergency reaction techniques.

  • Deploy smoke to obscure movement.
  • Use suppression fire to cover crossing elements.
  • Maintain aggressive momentum to clear the area quickly.
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