If a car is on its roof with an unrestrained driver, what should your first instruction be?

When a car is on its roof with an unrestrained driver, the first instruction should be to take the weight off of the posts. This is crucial because the structural integrity of the vehicle is compromised when it is overturned. If there is still pressure on certain points of the vehicle, such as the roof or the posts, it can increase the risk of injury to the driver, particularly if they are trapped. Before any extrication is attempted, ensuring that the vehicle is stabilized and that the weight is removed from dangerous areas allows for a safer environment for both the rescuer and the patient.

By prioritizing this step, you are making sure that when the driver is extricated, the risk of further injury due to vehicle movements or potential collapse is minimized. This careful approach also helps ensure that any medical interventions can be conducted safely and effectively once the patient has been stabilized.