What should you do in the event of a tire blowout?

Answer: B — Grip the steering wheel firmly

In the event of a tire blowout, gripping the steering wheel firmly is vital for maintaining control of the vehicle. When a tire blows out, the sudden loss of air pressure can cause the car to swerve or pull in the direction of the blown tire. By keeping a tight grip on the steering wheel, you ensure that you can respond effectively to the vehicle's movements and steer it safely to a stop. It’s also important to stay calm during this alarming situation, as panic can lead to overreacting, which might further jeopardize safety. Maintaining control allows you to manage the vehicle and guide it towards a safe location to stop. While other actions might seem appropriate, they are less effective in managing the initial impact of a blowout. For instance, braking hard can cause the vehicle to skid or lose more control, whereas speeding up could exacerbate the situation as well. Activating hazard lights is important as a later step for alerting other drivers, but it does not directly assist in regaining control immediately after the blowout occurs.