1997 Honda Odyssey Owner's Manual - Page 20

Additional Safety Information Door Locks It is not safe to leave your car doors unlocked. A passenger, especially a child, could open a door and accidentally fall out. Also, there is a greater chance of being thrown out of the car during a crash when the doors are not locked. Storing Cargo Safely Before you drive, make sure you first securely store or tie down any items that could be thrown around the car and hurt someone, or interfere with your ability to operate the controls. Be sure to keep compartment doors closed when the car is moving. If a front passenger hits the door of an open glove box, for example, he could injure his knees. For information on loading cargo, see page 116. Driving with Pets Loose pets can be a hazard while you are driving. An unrestrained pet can interfere with your ability to drive the car. In a crash or sudden stop, loose pets or cages can be thrown around inside the car and hurt you or your passengers. It is also for their safety that pets should be properly restrained in your car. The recommended way to restrain a medium-sized or larger dog is with a special traveling harness. This harness can be secured to the rear seat with a seat belt. Travel harnesses are available at pet stores. A small dog, cat, or other small animal will be safest in a pet carrier with rigid sides. Choose a style that allows you to secure it to the car's seat by routing a seat belt through the carrier's handle. For further information, contact your veterinarian or local animal protection society. Driver and Passenger Safety