2004 Dodge Caravan Owner's Manual - Page 55

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55 The front airbag control module also monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON positions. These include all of the items listed above except the knee bolster, instrument panel and the steering wheel and column. If the key is in the OFF position, in the ACC position, or not in the ignition switch, the side airbags are not on and will not inflate. In moderate to severe side collisions, the side airbag inflator on the crash side of the vehicle is triggered, releasing a quantity of nontoxic gas. The inflating side airbag exits through the seat seam into the space between the occupant and the door. The side airbag moves at a very high speed and with such a high force that it could injure you if you are not seated properly, or if items are positioned in the area where the side airbag inflates. This especially applies to children. If An Airbag Deployment Occurs The airbag systems are designed to deploy when the airbag control modules detect a moderate-to-severe collision, to help restrain the driver and front passenger, and then immediately deflate. NOTE: A collision that is not severe enough to need airbag protection will not activate the system. This does not mean something is wrong with the airbag system. If you do have a collision which deploys the airbag, any or all of the following may occur: • The airbag material may sometimes cause abrasions and/or skin reddening to the driver and front passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. The abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium floor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals. They are not permanent and normally heal quickly. However, if you 2