When performing a rescue, it's crucial to be alert and stay what?

In any rescue situation, the priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved, including both the rescuer and the person being rescued. Staying alive is paramount because if the rescuer becomes a victim, they can no longer assist others effectively. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the essential need for a rescuer to be aware of their surroundings and manage their own safety during the operation.

While safety, focus, and calmness are also important qualities for a rescuer, they serve to support the overall goal of staying alive and avoiding harm. A rescuer must be vigilant about potential dangers that could jeopardize their own safety and the success of the rescue effort.