By Jan 2012 to fits airbags, what is our role?

Over the last few years, the installation of airbags in new cars has become more common with most manufacturers now fitting at least a driver’s side airbag. Airbags are known as Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) and are not a substitute for the use of seat belts. SRS Airbags are usually fitted on the front passenger and driver side.

The dateline now is 1st January for all car manufacturer. “For those having trouble complying with the deadline, come and talk to us. We are prepared to give some leeway,” Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha said at a press conference.

So what is our role? We just need to know how to use and maintain it properly.

1. Airbags have to be used with seat belts.
This is to ensure that they function without glitches when required. Do not ignore the use of seat belts just because you have air bags. Remember that airbags are utilized together with seat belts, and not independently. Some cars required you to use seat belts before the airbags is active.

2. Maintain distance from airbags
If you are seated too close to the airbag (less than 3 inches), you stand the risk of getting injured when the inflation occurs. Thus keep yourself at least 8 to 10 inches away from your airbags to guarantee your safety. To do this, move your driver’s seat as far back as possible from the steering (do not compromise on driving comforts though, you need to be able to reach you pedals comfortably).

3. Make sure airbags directed to your chest
Recline your seat slightly so that you are not upright, this would give you a better distance from the steering wheel. And make sure that the airbag is directed towards your chest, and not your head. This could be accomplished by moving the steering wheel to as low a position as possible.

4. Airbags maintenance
When we talk about airbag maintenance, the only thing that can be done is to regularly check on them when you take your car for regular services. Let the professionals handle your airbag system, as it is not advisable for those who are unqualified to fiddle with the airbags.The personnel at the service centres would be able to run some tests to check.

Act now before its too late.