During personnel recovery, what is one reason for evaluating the terrain?

Evaluating the terrain during personnel recovery is critical for strategizing resources and operations effectively. Understanding the physical characteristics of the environment allows military personnel to identify potential obstacles, favorable movement routes, and suitable locations for conducting missions. By assessing terrain features such as elevation, vegetation, and waterways, operations can be tailored to maximize efficiency and safety during personnel recovery efforts. This evaluation helps in planning how to deploy units, allocate resources, and create operational plans that are congruent with the natural landscape, ultimately enhancing the chances of a successful recovery operation.