Airbags have a well proven record of saving lives. In the US, where they are
much more common, they are estimated to save over 500 lives each year. However,
more recently there has been some media attention to children reportedly killed
by airbags.
In most cases a rearward-facing infant restraint was being used, the
child seat wasn't attached properly to the car, or the child wasn't wearing a
seat belt.
So, if your car has an airbag on the passenger side, how do you safely
restrain a child? Here are some recommendations:
Never use a rearward-facing infant restraint in the front passenger seat.
Preferably fit all child restraints in the rear seat.
If you do not have a rear seat and have to use a forward-facing child seat or booster in the front passenger seat:
- position the adult seat at itsrearmost setting on the seat slide.
- make sure the top tether is attached firmly if provided.
- discourage the child from leaning forward.
