Volvo V70 Owner's Manual page 21

SRS (airbag), SIPS bag (side airbag) and Inflatable Curtain (IC)
When do the airbags and curtain inflate?
The SRS system senses the collision in the level of braking and the speed
reduction caused by the collision. The sensor determines whether the
collision is of the character and nature requiring airbag deployment.
Note that it is not only the deformation of the bodywork which affects the
car's sensors but also the speed reduction at the moment of impact. This
means that SRS sensor senses those occasions when there is a risk that
occupants in the front seats may be injured by blows against the dashboard
or steering wheel.
The above applies to the SIPS system (side airbags), and inflatable curtains
except that side impact airbags and inflatable curtains are only deployed in
side-on collisions, when the car is hit by an object with sufficient force.
NOTE! Deployment of the SRS, SIPS and IC systems occurs only once in
a collision in the relevant direction.
If the airbags have been deployed, we recommend the following:
· Tow the car to a Volvo workshop. Do not drive the car with the airbags
deployed even if the car can be driven after an accident.
· Let an authorised Volvo workshop replace components to the SRS,
SIPS, and IC systems.
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WARNING!
The SRS sensors are located in the centre console. If the passenger
compartment floor has been drenched with water, remove the battery
leads in the cargo compartment. Do not try to start the car; the airbags
may deploy. Tow the car to an authorised Volvo workshop.
WARNING!
Never drive with deployed airbags! They can hinder the steering of
your car. Other safety systems may also be damaged. Intensive
exposure to the smoke and dust released when the airbags are
deployed can cause eye and skin irritation. If irritated, wash with cold
water and/or contact a doctor. The speed of deployment can, in
conjunction with the airbag fabric, cause friction burns to the skin.