Could add, I guess, that my reference to fire affecting squads within 14 metres means "significantly" affecting them. Effects do actually go out to 20+ metres as in Col T's post, but they are minor in comparison.
I will, on occasion, split a squad for venturing out across an open area. Knowing the "area fire" dimensions, I'm talking about a 50-100 meter sized area. I will typically send the half squad with the most short ranged fire power, with the other half (hopefully with a LMG) behind in cover for support. If the first half makes it across, then the other half can follow next turn. Better to lose a half squad investigating than a whole squad.