Fundamentals of Vehicle Stabilization

Learn the fundamentals of vehicle stabilization, including key techniques for safe and effective rescue operations.

The primary risk with accident vehicles is movement.
Unexpected vehicle motion can exert pressure on occupants and endanger rescue personnel nearby.

Vehicle stabilization refers to using tools like blocks and ropes to eliminate unnecessary motion in the vehicle, ensuring the rescue team can safely access both the injured and the vehicle.

Halting Tire Movement

All vehicles rely on tires to roll over surfaces.
In most accident scenarios, the brakes are not engaged, so the first step is to stop tire motion.

For non-powered tires or vehicles on slight inclines, wheel chocks are usually sufficient to prevent movement.
However, for heavier vehicles or steeper slopes, wheel chocks alone may not suffice.

In such cases, the parking brake becomes essential.
If interior access is impossible to engage the parking brake, consider deflating the tires as an alternative.

Minimizing Vertical Movement

A vehicle’s suspension system allows the body to move up and down, which can worsen injuries to occupants.
To eliminate vertical movement, minimize the suspension’s flexibility.

You can lift the suspension manually and insert cribbing to stabilize the system.
This approach is effective in reducing suspension activity.

For this method:

Lift the suspension near the front or rear wheel wells.
Ensure you lift using your legs, not your back, and only lift the suspension—not the entire vehicle.

Adjusting Tire Pressure

After inserting cribbing, deflating the tires can further enhance stabilization.
Deflating the tires helps the vehicle settle firmly on the cribbing, providing a stable foundation.
When deflated, the suspension system becomes nearly inactive, reducing unwanted movement.

Caution:
If the vehicle carries a heavy load or another vehicle is stacked on top, deflating the tires could compromise stability.

The decision to deflate should always be made by the team leader.
To deflate tires, cut the valve stem to release air.

Creating a Stabilizing Triangle

Modern vehicles like minivans and SUVs often have rounded shapes and higher centers of gravity, making them prone to rolling over and instability.

For vehicles that have overturned, toppled, or are resting on objects, halting tire movement alone isn’t enough.

A wider base improves stability by enlarging the area within the center of gravity.
Insert cribbing or step chocks to extend the vehicle’s base.

When dealing with highly unstable rollovers, use advanced tools like power shores for added support.
For maximum effectiveness:

Create a triangle with a high apex and a wide base.

Always Stabilize Vehicles

Stabilization may seem like a minor task, but even a slow-moving 2,000 kg vehicle can cause catastrophic damage.
Regardless of how minor the accident appears, always perform stabilization measures.

Why stabilize a vehicle that is upright and stationary on four tires?

Reference page: The primary reason for stabilizing an upright vehicle is to minimize the vehicle’s suspension movement and create a solid, secure foundation. A vehicle’s suspension system allows the body to move up and down, which can cause further injuries to any victims inside, especially if spinal cord injuries are suspected. Proper stabilization is essential to prevent any movement that could worsen spinal injuries or lead to paralysis.

References　National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)