How air bags work | Correct seat adjustment | Air bags & children | Air bag injuries | Deactivating air bags | Used cars with air bags
The rapid deceleration caused by a crash triggers the air bag. Nitrogen gas is rapidly produced and the bag inflates at a speed of more than 300 km/h (faster than the blink of an eye). The air bag must inflate this quickly because it has to be fully expanded at the time of impact so that it can cushion you as you are thrown forward into the dash or steering wheel.
Air bags also have vents, so they deflate immediately after absorbing the energy of an occupant. They cannot smother you and they don't restrict your movement. The "smoke" that is seen in the vehicle following the inflation of an air bag is the nontoxic starch or talc that is used to keep the insides of the air bag from sticking together. It is normal to see a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt repellant. Read your vehicle owner's guide for a more detailed description.
Air bags provide the best protection during severe crashes. However, they may also deploy in low-speed collisions (sometimes as low as 15 km/h).
It's not always easy to tell if you have an air bag but it is very important to know if you have one. Always check the vehicle owner's manual.
You must wear a seat belt. Air bags are designed to provide extra protection to belted adults.
By buckling up correctly, restrained occupants are held in position so direct contact with the air bag as it inflates is avoided.
Seatbelts and child seats still give the best protection in all types of crashes.
For more information on air bags, check out your vehicle owner's manual or the Transport Canada website. You may also phone Transport Canada at 1-800-333-0371.
