During stabilization, the vehicle should be tied down to a stable surface.

• A. Tie down the vehicle to a stable surface.
• B. Ignore the surface.
• C. Leave it free to move.
• D. Use sandbags.

Answer: (A)

Stabilization focuses on preventing any movement of the vehicle so rescuers can work safely. By tying the vehicle to a stable surface, you create a fixed point that resists motion from gravity, impact, or crew actions, keeping the patient compartment accessible and protecting everyone on scene. The surface you anchor to should be solid and non-yielding, so the tie-down won’t fail under load. While sandbags might be helpful as a supplement in some cases, they aren’t a reliable primary method for securing the vehicle. Ignoring the surface or leaving the vehicle free to move introduces clear hazards and can lead to further injury or equipment damage. Tying down to a stable surface is the best practice to maintain control and safety during stabilization.