In case of severe bleeding, what is a critical step to take?

Applying pressure to the wound is a critical step in managing severe bleeding because it helps to control and minimize blood loss. When pressure is applied directly to the site of the bleeding, it encourages the blood vessels to constrict and can help facilitate clotting. This immediate action is vital in preventing excessive blood loss, which can lead to shock or even loss of life.

The other choices do not prioritize the immediate need to address the bleeding. Moving the passenger to a more comfortable location could worsen the situation by increasing the risk of blood loss and compromise care. Keeping the passenger awake and alert may be important in certain medical emergencies, but it does not have the same immediate life-saving impact as controlling the bleeding. Ignoring the situation if the passenger is conscious neglects the urgency of managing severe bleeding, which requires prompt and decisive action to ensure the safety and health of the individual.