SEATS AND RESTRAINTS 73A pregnant woman should wear alap-shoulder belt, and the lap portionshould be worn as low as possible,below the rounding, throughout thepregnancy.The best way to protect the fetus is toprotect the mother. When a seat beltis worn properly, it is more likely thatthe fetus will not be hurt in a crash.For pregnant women, as for anyone,the key to making seat belts effectiveis wearing them properly.Safety System CheckPeriodically check the seat beltreminder, seat belts, buckles, latchplates, retractors, shoulder belt heightadjusters (if equipped), and seat beltanchorages to make sure they are allin working order. Look for any otherloose or damaged seat belt systemparts that might keep a seat beltsystem from performing properly. Seeyour dealer to have it repaired. Torn,frayed, or twisted seat belts may notprotect you in a crash. Torn or frayedseat belts can rip apart under impactforces. If a belt is torn or frayed, haveit replaced immediately. If a belt istwisted, it may be possible to untwistby reversing the latch plate on thewebbing. If the twist cannot becorrected, ask your dealer to fix it.Make sure the seat belt reminder lightis working. See Seat Belt Reminders0 124.Keep seat belts clean and dry. See SeatBelt Care 0 73.Seat Belt CareKeep belts clean and dry.Seat belts should be properly cared forand maintained.Seat belt hardware should be kept dryand free of dust or debris. Asnecessary, exterior hard surfaces andseat belt webbing may be lightlycleaned with mild soap and water.Ensure there is not excessive dust ordebris in the mechanism. If dust ordebris exists in the system please seethe dealer. Parts may need to bereplaced to ensure properfunctionality of the system.{ WarningDo not bleach or dye seat beltwebbing. It may severely weakenthe webbing. In a crash, they mightnot be able to provide adequateprotection. Clean and rinse seat beltwebbing only with mild soap andlukewarm water. Allow the webbingto dry.
