What type of tools are commonly used in vehicle rescues?

Hydraulic spreaders are essential tools in vehicle rescue operations, particularly for extricating trapped victims from vehicles after accidents. These tools, often referred to as "Jaws of Life," utilize hydraulic power to open or spread apart car doors, hoods, and other structural components of a vehicle, creating space for safe access to individuals inside. They are specifically designed to handle the significant forces required to shift metal and other materials during rescue scenarios, making them invaluable for first responders in life-threatening situations.

While hand tools can also play a role in vehicle extraction, they typically serve more as supplementary tools for simple tasks, such as breaking windows or cutting through softer materials. Diagnostic tools and cleaning equipment are not primarily designed for rescue operations; they focus on assessing vehicle conditions or maintaining hygiene, which are outside the scope of immediate extrication efforts. Thus, hydraulic spreaders are the most critical and specialized tools utilized directly in the context of vehicle rescues.