What is the primary concern when securing an overturned vehicle?

The primary concern when securing an overturned vehicle is maintaining stability to prevent further movement. An overturned vehicle can be unpredictable and may shift or roll over again if not stabilized properly. This stabilization is crucial to protect both the rescuers and any potential victims inside the vehicle.

If the vehicle is not stable, it can pose a significant risk of injury to emergency personnel and can complicate rescue efforts. Rescuers often use various tools and techniques, such as chocks or stabilization struts, to ensure the vehicle remains secure while they assess the situation or prepare for extrication.

While preventing fuel leaks, ensuring the safety of bystanders, and checking for passengers still inside are all important considerations, the immediate priority is to stabilize the vehicle to create a safe working environment. Without this crucial step, the risks associated with moving close to the vehicle increase significantly.