SLLS is an acronym used in patrol briefings. What does it stand for?

• A. Stop, Look, Listen, Smell
• B. Stop, Look, Leave, Smell
• C. Stop, Look, Listen, See
• D. Stop, Listen, Look, Smell

Answer: (A)

Stop, Look, Listen, Smell is a quick, multi-sensory check you run before moving. Stop first to prevent rushing into danger, then Look across your sector to identify terrain features, potential ambush points, and routes of advance or obstacles. Listen follows to pick up any sounds that reveal enemy presence, alarms, or approaching vehicles. Smell finishes the check by picking up odors like smoke, fuel, or other chemical indicators that signal fires, vehicles, or hazards. Using all four senses gives a more complete picture and helps you detect threats you might miss with vision alone, guiding a safer, more informed movement plan. Swapping or dropping elements (like using See instead of Listen or omitting Smell) doesn’t align with the established patrol briefing check and reduces your early threat detection.