1997 Honda Odyssey Owner's Manual - Page 6

The Seat Belt System and How It Works Why Wear Seat Belts Wearing seat belts, and wearing them properly, is fundamental to your safety and the safety of your passengers. During a crash or emergency stop, seat belts can help keep you from being thrown against the inside of the car, against other occupants, or out of the car. Of course, seat belts cannot completely protect you in every crash. But, in most cases, seat belts reduce your chance of serious injury. They can even save your life. That is why many states and all Canadian provinces require you to wear seat belts. Passengers should not stand up or change seats while the vehicle is moving. If they are not wearing seat belts during a crash or emergency stop, they can be thrown against the inside of the vehicle, against other occupants, or out of the vehicle. A pregnant woman needs to wear a seat belt to protect herself and her unborn child (see page 10). Two people should never use the same seat belt. If they do, they could be very seriously injured in a crash. Do not place the shoulder portion of a lap/shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back. This could increase the chance of serious injuries in a crash. Do not put shoulder belt pads or other accessories on seat belts. They can reduce the effectiveness of the belts and increase the chance of injury. Driver and Passenger Safety Not wearing a seat belt increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash. Be sure you and your passengers always wear seat belts and wear them properly. Important Safety Reminders Seat belts are designed for adults and larger children. All infants and small children must be properly restrained in child safety seats (see page 20). Never let passengers ride in the cargo area or on top of a folded-down seat. Carry passengers in the rear only when they are sitting in a locked, upright seat, and are properly restrained by seat belts.