2025 MFRI Rescue Technician Vehicle and Machinery Extrication Practice Test

Disconnecting the car battery is the correct method for disabling the Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) in a vehicle. This action cuts the power supply to the airbag system and other electronic components associated with the SRS, effectively preventing accidental deployment of airbags while performing maintenance or extrication procedures. It’s essential to wait a few minutes after disconnecting the battery to ensure that residual energy is dissipated, further reducing the risk of unexpected airbag deployment.

The other options would not effectively disable the SRS system. For instance, removing airbags can lead to a hazardous situation where airbag components may still be live or could potentially cause injuries. Removing fuses may not guarantee that the entire SRS system is deactivated, as some systems might have redundant power sources. Turning off the ignition does not cut power to the SRS system, and it's possible for airbags to deploy even when the vehicle is turned off. Therefore, disconnecting the car battery is the safest and most reliable method to ensure the SRS is fully disabled during extrication operations.