Which step is prioritized first when encountering a casualty under Care Under Fire?

• A. Return fire or move to cover first, then control life-threatening bleeding if tactically feasible.
• B. Treat all injuries before threats are addressed.
• C. Wait for a medic to join the scene.
• D. Call for evacuation and withdraw.

Answer: (A)

In Care Under Fire, safety takes precedence. The first move is to reduce exposure to the threat by either returning fire or taking the casualty to cover. Once you’ve established a safer position or situation, you can begin life-saving care if you can do so without increasing risk. This order matters because you can’t effectively treat injuries while active, dangerous fire is present, and your ability to provide care depends on your own safety and the ability to create a safer environment for both of you. After ensuring protection, you address life-threatening bleeding if it’s feasible within the tactical situation. The other options stall or ignore the need to first secure safety, which is why they aren’t the best initial step.