Which tool would be appropriate for accessing a victim trapped in a vehicle?

The appropriate tool for accessing a victim trapped in a vehicle is hydraulic spreaders. These tools are specifically designed for vehicle rescue situations where a victim is trapped due to a collapsed structure or the crumpling of the vehicle itself. Hydraulic spreaders, often referred to as “jaws of life,” generate significant force to spread apart the vehicle's metal components, allowing rescuers to create a larger opening for access.

In comparison, while a fire extinguisher serves an essential function in safety scenarios by putting out small fires, it does not aid in patient rescue or access. A hand saw, though it can cut through materials, is not practical for quickly or effectively accessing a victim trapped in a vehicle, as it lacks the hydraulic power necessary to overcome resistance from the vehicle's frame. A transport stretcher is primarily used for moving a victim after they are accessed and removed from the vehicle, but it does not assist in the extraction process itself. Therefore, hydraulic spreaders are the best choice for accessing a victim in need of rescue from a compromised vehicle.