Final answer:
The first step when performing care under fire is ensuring personal safety by assessing the situation to avoid becoming another casualty. After confirming it's safe, the rescuer should wear appropriate equipment and locate victims to remove them from the dangerous area.
Step-by-step explanation:
When performing care under fire, the absolute first priority is to ensure your own safety by not becoming an additional casualty. This concept is applicable in any emergency situation, not just literal fires, but also in active combat or any scenario where there is immediate danger. It is important to assess the situation to understand the level of threat and to make sure you are not putting yourself in harm's way while trying to assist others.
Once it's safe to proceed, in the context of a real fire situation, additional steps would include making sure to dress in the appropriate fire-resistant clothing and breathing apparatus, and to locate and rescue victims efficiently. It is critical to adhere to protocols and to use properly maintained and functioning safety gear. In any critical incident, knowing the location of safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and eyewash stations is crucial. Ultimately, the primary focus is on removing the victim from the danger area to a place where further medical aid can be safely administered.