Purpose of the advance
The advance exists to remove uncertainty at the moment the principal is most exposed. Every unknown at the venue is a risk multiplier.
Venue recce elements
Approach, drop-off, entry, hold points, meeting room, exits, toilets, back-of-house corridors, safe rooms. Photograph each and note timings.
Route recce
Primary and two contingency routes. Traffic patterns at the actual time of movement. Fuel stops for the driver, not the principal.
Medical and evacuation planning
Nearest A&E, level of trauma capability, journey time at the actual time of movement. Preferred hospital pre-notified for HNW principals where lawful.
Documenting and briefing
A concise advance report, briefed to the team before the operation. One page, one photo per position, timings against the itinerary.