2002 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 36

Rear seats D Never drive the vehicle with the head rest removed because they are designed to reduce the risk of serious neck injury in the event that the vehicle is struck from the rear. D Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. Do not put cushions or any other materials between occupants and seatbacks or seat cushions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death. D Never allow passengers to ride on the folded rear seatback or in the cargo area. Doing so may result in serious injury or death. D Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward and injure passengers in the event of a sudden stop or accident. D Secure skis and other lengthy items properly to prevent them from shooting forward and causing serious injury during a sudden stop a sudden steering or a rapid acceleration. WARNING Sit well back and upright. HS0248 1-8