6 Airbag Safety Tips

Practicing airbag safety in your vehicle is more than just having an airbag installed and letting it do its job. An airbag is made of a highly elastic material, which inflates at a very high speed if there is an accident. The airbag functions as a cushion, thereby protecting the inhabitants of the vehicle from collisions with hard objects and the vehicle itself. When used with seat belts, airbags help save many lives. However, because airbags deploy at very high speeds with tremendous force, they come with their own risks, which can results in serious injury and even death, if proper precautions are not observed.

Tip 1: Wear Your Seat Belt

In the absence of a seat belt, an airbag can be very dangerous. The occupants of the vehicle can be propelled forward at high speeds. When they collide with the airbag at such speeds, the results can be fatal. Some vehicles have separate lap belts and shoulder belts, both of which should be worn when traveling.

Tip 2: Seat Children under 12 in the Rear of the Vehicle

Children under the age of 12 are safest in car seats. They must also be properly and securely strapped in. a young child may not be properly secured with a seat belt, which may be loose. It is important to set up the car seats in the back of the vehicle. This is because if they are kept in the front of the vehicle, the children may be too close to the dashboard. In the event of a collision, the airbag may be deployed and can strike the children at very high force. This force can seriously injure young children.

Tip 3: Never Place a Rear-facing Infant Car Seat in the Front

A rear facing car seat must always be placed in the back seat of the vehicle. If a rear facing car seat is placed in the front and if the airbag is deployed, it can hit the car seat at a great force that can be life-threatening to a young infant. Never hold an infant in the lap while driving.

Tip 4: Sit a Safe Distance Away from the Dashboard

Whether you are a driver or a passenger in the front seat, it is important to keep a safe distance from the dashboard. Keep your seat pushed back as much as is comfortable. This will prevent the airbag landing at close proximity. It will also reduce the chances of burns from the hot gas that is used in airbags.

Tip 5: Avoid Leaning against the Side if Your Vehicle has Side Airbags

Never lean against the side of the vehicle or its window. Be aware of the airbag placement in your vehicle and ensure that all the passengers follow the same safety precautions.

Tip 6: Never Store Objects between Yourself and the Airbag

If you keep any objects between yourself and the airbag, they could be deadly in the event of a collision. When the airbag is deployed, these objects become wedged between yourself and the airbag. Thereby increasing the chances of fatal injuries.