What critical action should be taken in the Care Under Fire (CUF) phase?

During the Care Under Fire (CUF) phase, the priority is to address life-threatening hemorrhage while minimizing risk to both the casualty and the provider. When a traumatic injury results in severe bleeding, applying a tourniquet is crucial because it effectively stops blood loss from extremity wounds. The use of a tourniquet is not just a recommendation but a vital step in ensuring the casualty's survival until they can receive more definitive medical care.

In this phase, swift action is required, and measures must be taken to control the bleeding before it leads to shock or death. The focus is on performing effective interventions in a high-threat environment, which means that controlling bleeding takes precedence over other potential actions like applying heat packs or waiting for medical assistance.

While moving the casualty to safety can be part of the care process, it should not be undertaken at the expense of controlling major bleeding. If a tourniquet can be applied quickly and effectively before any movement occurs, it significantly enhances the casualty's chances for survival and stabilization in preparation for further medical treatment.