What should be the first step in managing a casualty during the Care under fire phase?

In the Care under Fire phase, the first step in managing a casualty is to assess the threat and return fire if necessary. This step is crucial because the safety of both the rescuer and the casualty must be prioritized. If the environment is still dangerous, attending to a casualty without first neutralizing the threat can result in further injuries or death to both the rescuer and the casualty.

This step emphasizes the need for situational awareness during combat situations. By ensuring the area is secure, the rescuer can then proceed to provide care without the immediate risk of enemy fire. Ensuring the safety of the scene allows for more effective and timely medical intervention once the threat is mitigated.

In contrast, administering pain relief medication, calling for backup, or performing a quick assessment of injuries, although important steps in the overall care process, are not the immediate priorities during the Care under Fire phase. Without securing the area, these actions would expose the personnel to unnecessary risk.