What action must be taken if property is lost or stolen?

In the event that property is lost or stolen, it is essential to file a report and take appropriate actions to investigate and address the loss. This procedure is crucial because it not only documents the incident for future reference but also initiates an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the loss. Filing a report is part of a larger accountability mechanism that ensures all potential thefts or losses are tracked and addressed properly.

Taking these actions can lead to recovery efforts, adjustments in security measures, and adjustments in inventory practices to prevent future incidents. It is also important for maintaining accurate records and for audit purposes, as authorities would need a formal account of what occurred if the property has significant value or if a pattern of loss occurs.

While creating a new inventory, searching the area, or halting operations could be related to managing the aftermath of lost property, those steps do not directly address the immediate necessity of reporting the loss and initiating an investigation, which is why the chosen action is the most appropriate and necessary in such situations.