1997 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 48

Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle's safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn't long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It's free. Whenyou go in to order it, take the heaviest coat will wear, so the you extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don't let someone else use and use it it, only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you've had a crash, do youneed new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, asthey would be if worn during a more severe crash,then you need new belts. If belts are cutor damaged, replace them. Collision damage alsomay mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn't being used at the time of the collision. Checking Y 1 RestraintSystems o Now and then, make surethe safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keepa safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apartunder impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, geta new one right away. Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.) If an air bag inflates, you'llneed to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bagsystem earlier in this section. 1-41