A safety system includes a safety response device positioned proximal to an aircraft seat. The safety response device is operable to deploy thereby controlling the leg extension condition of legs of an occupant of the aircraft seat. A triggering system is operable to activate the safety response device when a deceleration is detected. The safety response device can be operable to maintain the legs of a seated occupant in an un-extended condition thereby protecting the legs from extending when a rapid deceleration occurs. The safety response device can be operable to transition the legs of a seated occupant from an un-extended condition to an extended condition at a predetermined rate. The safety response device can be, for example, and airbag or a kick plate. The device may automatically return to a stowed condition a predetermined time after deployment to permit egress from the seat and aircraft.