2003 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 37

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags 1. Lower the headrests. 2. Unlock the seatback by pulling the release knob and then fold the seatback down. To return the seatback to its original position, raise the seatback until it locks into place and make sure that it is securely locked. Seatbelts ! Seatbelt safety tips " After returning the rear seatback to its original position, make certain that the shoulder belts are fully visible. " Never allow passengers to ride on the folded rear seatback or in the cargo area. Doing so may result in serious injury or death. " Secure lengthy items properly to prevent them from shooting forward and causing serious injury during a sudden stop. " All persons in the vehicle should fasten their seatbelts BEFORE the vehicle starts to move. Otherwise, the possibility of serious injury becomes greater in the event of a sudden stop or accident. " All belts should fit snugly in order to provide full restraint. Loose fitting belts are not as effective in preventing or reducing injury. " Each seatbelt is designed to support only one person. Never use a single belt for two or more persons - even children. Otherwise, in an accident, serious injury or death could result. " Replace all seatbelt assemblies including retractors and attaching hardware worn by occupants of a vehicle that has been in a serious accident. The entire assembly should be replaced even if damage is not obvious. " Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and 1-12