BATTERY PRECAUTIONS BATTERIES CAN EXPLODE! Batteries generate explosive gasses.  Keep sparks, flames, burning cigarettes or other ignition sources away at all times. BATTERIES CONTAIN SULFURIC ACIDI Sulfuric acid Is poison and can cause severe burns. No one should work near a battery either in a vehicle or on the bench without knowing and observing the precautions described in this manual. Service personnel should be familiar with the proper procedures to be used before attempting to test or charge a battery or to "jump" start a vehicle having a discharged battery. The equipment manufacturer’s instructions must be followed when any equipment such as a battery charger or tester is used. DANGER OF EXPLODING BATTERY Hydrogen and oxygen gases are produced during normal battery operation.  These gases escape through the battery vents and may form an explosive atmosphere around the battery if ventilation is poor. Explosive gases may continue to be present in and around the battery for several hours after it has been charged. To prevent ignition of gases within the battery, sparks, flames or other Ignition sources should be kept well away from the battery. Be careful that tools or other metallic objects do not fall across the battery terminals or between the ungrounded terminal and any adjacent metallic part which is grounded.  Do not break "live" circuits at the terminals of batteries because a spark usually occurs at a point where a "live" circuit is broken.  Make certain the charger cable clamps or booster leads are clean and making good connections.  A poor connection can cause an electrical arc which could ignite the gas mixture and explode the battery. Anyone in the vicinity of the battery when it explodes could receive injuries, including eye injury from flying pieces of the case or cover or acid thrown from the battery.  It is for these reasons that eye protection must always be worn when working near batteries. WARNING - DO NOT SMOKE, STRIKE A MATCH OR BRING OTHER FLAME INTO THE VICINITY OF THE BATTERY.  THE EYES MUST BE SHIELDED WHEN WORKING NEAR A BATTERY.  NEVER LEAN OVER A BATTERY DURING CHARGING, TESTING OR "JUMP STARTING" OPERATIONS. HANDLING BATTERY ACID Use extreme care to avoid spilling or splashing battery electrolyte (which is diluted sulfuric acid) as it can destroy clothing and burn the skin.  When working with battery electrolyte, as when filling batteries, wear goggles to shield eyes.  Protective clothing is advisable. Do not place a battery or acid within the reach of children. Electrolyte splashed Into the eyes is extremely dangerous.  If this should happen, force the eye open and flood It with cool, clean water for approximately five minutes.  A doctor should be called immediately. If acid (electrolyte) Is taken Internally, drink large quantities of water or milk.  Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten egg or vegetable oil.  Call physician immediately. If electrolyte is spilled or splashed on clothing or the body, or any surface of the vehicle, it should be neutralized immediately with a solution of baking soda and water and then rinsed with clean water. If it becomes necessary to prepare electrolyte of a desired specific gravity, always pour the concentrated acid into the water - do this slowly - never pour water into acid.  A dangerous "spattering" of the liquid would result. This is caused by extreme heat which is generated whenever water is mixed with strong acid.  Stir the liquid continually while acid is being added. When handling a plastic cased battery, excessive pressure placed on the end walls could cause electrolyte to spew through the vents.  Therefore, always use a battery carrier to lift these batteries or lift with your hands placed at opposite corners. BATTERY CHARGING PRECAUTIONS Do not attempt to charge a battery unless you are thoroughly familiar with the step by step procedure to use.  Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the charger.  If the instructions are no longer legible and you do not have literature containing the instructions, obtain them from the manufacturer of the charger.   Never use a charger without instructions. The room or compartment in which the battery is being charged should be well ventilated.  Follow precautions to prevent battery explosion.  Explosive mixtures of hydrogen gas are generated during battery charging. This gas can be exploded by a torch, match flame, lighted cigarette, sparks from loose connections or metal tools making contact between the terminals or the ungrounded terminal and adjacent metal parts which are grounded. Always shield eyes when working around the battery. CTS-411B - Page 3