Ford 2000 Escort Owner's Manual page 63

Folding rear seats (if equipped)
Folding down the rear seats
To fold the seatback down:
Press the latch control downward
or pull up on strap and
Pull the seatback forward and
down.
Returning the seat to the upright position
Check to see that the seat and seatback is latched securely in
position. Keep floor area free of objects that would prevent
proper seat engagement. Never attempt to adjust the seat while the
vehicle is in motion.
To return the seat to the upright/normal seating position:
Rotate seat upward and latch.
The full rear bench seat is shown. The split-folding rear seat (if
equipped) operates in a similar manner.
SAFETY RESTRAINTS
Safety restraints precautions
Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap
belt snug and low across the hips.
Seating and safety restraints
63