What is the purpose of air bags in vehicle extrication?

The purpose of air bags in vehicle extrication is to lift and stabilize a vehicle while rescuing victims. In the context of a vehicle rescue scenario, rescuers often need to gain access to victims trapped inside a vehicle after an accident. This situation can be precarious, as the vehicle may be unstable and could shift further, posing additional risks to both the victims and the rescuers.

Air bags designed for rescue (often referred to as lifting bags) provide a controlled and efficient means of raising the vehicle off the trapped individual or stabilizing it to prevent any movement during the extrication efforts. This lifts the vehicle safely and ensures that the rescue can proceed without causing further harm to the trapped victims or jeopardizing the safety of the rescuers.

Other options, while they may seem relevant at first glance, do not accurately describe the primary function of these air bags in the context of vehicle extrication. For instance, providing oxygen to victims is not the role of air bags, nor do they create a protective barrier against debris or assist in exiting the vehicle by clearing a path. Their main goal is focused on lifting and stabilization during the rescue process.