1995 Honda Civic Owner's Manual - Page 12

Supplemental Restraint System What Happens in a Crash If you ever have a severe frontal collision, the sensors will detect rapid deceleration and signal the control unit to instantly inflate the airbags. During a crash, your seat belts will help to restrain your lower body and torso. The airbags will provide a cushion to absorb crash energy and help keep the head and chest of the driver and front passenger from striking the interior of the car. After inflating, the airbags will immediately deflate. The entire process, from detection to deflation, takes a fraction of a second. This process occurs so quickly that you may not hear the loud noise created by the airbag inflators or realize what has happened. After the crash, you may see what looks like smoke. This is actually powder from the airbag's surface. People with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort from the chemicals used by the airbag's activators. FRONTAL COLLISION RANGE Important Facts About Airbags Airbags inflate only when needed; in a severe frontal collision. A severe collision would be similar to a crash into a parked car at 25 mph. Airbags will not inflate in a moderate frontal collision, or during a rear impact, side impact, or rollover even if the impact is severe. Airbags inflate and deflate only once. They cannot protect you during any additional impacts that can occur during a crash sequence. Injuries, including fatal injuries, can occur in a severe collision, even if seat belts are worn properly and the airbags inflate. No safety system can provide complete protection in a severe crash. Driver and Passenger Safety