184
cal devices that will be powered by the battery and how
they
will be used.
Automotive batteries should
be used
only
in an emer-
gency situation when a suitable marine battery is
nOI
available. If used, the automotive battery should be re-
placed with a suitable marine battery as soon as possible.
R
ef
er to T
able
1 for recommended battery capacity.
S
af
ety Precautions
When working with batteries. useextreme care 10avoid
spill ing or splashing the electrolyte. This solution con-
tains sulfuric acid. which can ruin clothing and cause seri-
ous chemical bums. If any electrolyte is spilled or
splashed on clothing or skin, immediately neutralize with
a solution
of
bakin g soda and water, then flush the area
with
an abund ance
of
clean water.
WA
RNING
Electrolyte splashed into the eyes is ex-
tremely dangerous. Always wear safely
glasses while
working with batteries.
If
electrolyte is splashed into the eyes. call a
physician immediately, force the eyes open
andflood
with cool. clean
wOler
for
approx-
imatelyJive minutes.
If
electrolyte is spilled or splashed onto any surface. it
should be immediately neutralized with baking soda and
water solution and then
rinsed with clean water. While
batteries are being
charged, highly explosive hydrogen
gas forms in each cell. Some
of
this gas escapes through
filler cap openings and may fonn an explosive atmo-
sphere in and around the battery. This
con
dition can exist
for several hours. Sparks, an open flame or a lighted ciga-
rette can ignite this gas, caus ing an internal battery explo-
sion and possible serious perso nal inj ury.
Take the following precautions to prevent injury.
CHA PTER N
I:O;E
'.
,h'
l:;:-
....
_Cleanin
g
brush
Warm
waler
and baking
soda
solution
I. Do not smoke or permit any open flame near any bat-
tery being charged or that has been recently charged .
2. Do not disconnect live circuits at battery terminals,
since a spark usually occurs when a live circuit is broken.
3. Take care when connecting or disconnecting any bat-
tery charger. Make sure its power switch is
off
before
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