What is a key reason for using high-visibility vests during operations?

Using high-visibility vests during operations is primarily about safety. The bright colors and reflective properties of these vests help ensure that team members can be easily seen, especially in situations where visibility may be compromised, such as poor weather conditions, nighttime operations, or chaotic environments. This visibility is crucial for maintaining situational awareness among team members and for ensuring they can quickly identify one another, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing overall safety during search and rescue missions.

While distinguishing between team members, indicating seniority, or fashion might have some relevance in specific contexts, safety through visibility is the most critical reason for their use, as it directly impacts the effectiveness of the rescue operations and the well-being of the personnel involved.