A method of triggering at least one airbag in a vehicle is described, in which two or more criteria are used in the decision to fire the second stage of a two-stage airbag. Variables derived from measurement signals of an acceleration sensor are used as criteria. If these variables exceed threshold values within pre-defined times a firing decision is brought about. The criteria are chosen depending on the type of vehicle. Characteristic curves are used as threshold values. These characteristic curves may be modified depending on the use of a belt.