Upon arriving at a scene where the driver's side airbag has deployed, what should be the initial action?

When arriving at a scene where the driver's side airbag has deployed, the initial action of lifting the airbag and inspecting the steering wheel for damage is vital for evaluating the situation. This step is critical because it allows responders to determine the extent of damage to the steering wheel, which can indicate the forces involved in the collision and potential additional hazards, such as further deployment of airbags or injuries sustained by occupants.

By inspecting the steering wheel, responders can ascertain if the driver may need immediate medical assistance or if there could be electrical hazards present that might complicate further extrication efforts. Additionally, this inspection helps establish a safe working environment, as it enables responders to assess the potential risks associated with the airbag and the vehicle's integrity.

The other options do not directly address the safety and assessment needs upon arrival at a vehicle collision scene. While disconnecting the vehicle battery is an important safety step, it is typically not the immediate first action after an airbag deployment. Ensuring visibility through the rearview mirror is also less relevant in this context, as the focus should be initially on assessing injuries and vehicle damage, rather than checking for visibility. Deploying the passenger airbag is unnecessary until the situation has been stabilized and assessed.