When should tires be deflated during the stabilization process?

Deflating tires during the stabilization process is a critical step, and doing so after cribbing is in place is the appropriate approach for several reasons. When stabilization measures like cribbing are utilized first, they provide a secure support structure for the vehicle, preventing it from rolling or shifting unexpectedly.

Deflating the tires can lower the vehicle's center of gravity and reduce the risk of further movement, but if done before placing cribbing, it could lead to an unstable situation where the vehicle might shift, possibly resulting in harm to rescuers or complicating the extrication process. Therefore, completing the cribbing first ensures that safety is prioritized, stabilizing the vehicle effectively before any adjustments to the tires. This practice reflects the overall standard of maintaining site safety and ensuring that responders are protected during the extrication procedure.