If rescuers are able to get into a vehicle, what should their first action be?

The first action of rescuers upon gaining access to a vehicle should be to assess and protect the victims. This step is crucial for several reasons. First, it allows the rescuers to evaluate the condition of the victims, identify any immediate life-threatening injuries, and understand the best way to stabilize them before extraction. Protecting the victims also involves ensuring their safety from potential further hazards, such as fire, leaking fluids, or shifting vehicle parts.

By prioritizing assessment and protection, responders can make informed decisions that enhance the victims' chances of survival and minimize the risk of exacerbating any injuries. Immediate attention to the victims' situation sets the groundwork for a more effective extraction process thereafter. Once the assessment is complete and the victims are appropriately safeguarded, rescuers can consider subsequent steps, such as using a backboard or coordinating the extraction process effectively and safely.

Other options, such as extraction or removal of broken glass, could lead to complications if the victims' injuries have not been adequately assessed first. Attempting to extract without knowing the extent of the injuries could worsen the victims' conditions. Thus, starting with assessment and protection is an essential practice in vehicle rescue scenarios.