1996 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 76

Automatic TransmissionOperation It is dangerous to getout of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully inPARK (P) with the parking brakefirmly set. Your vehiclecan roII. Don't leaveyour vehicle whenthe engine is running unless you have to. If you have leftthe engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could beinjured. To be sure your vehicle won't move, even when you're on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever toPARK (P). See "Shifting Into PARK in the Index. If you're pulling a trailer, see "Towing a Trailer'' in the Index. (P)'% There are several different positions for your shift lever. PARK (P): This locks your rear wheels. It's the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can't move easily. 2-27