Basic Lead Acid Battery SAFETY Principals
(Thanks to Rolls/Surrette Battery Company)

Batteries store electrical energy chemically and can be used and operated safely but caution and some basic principals should be kept in mind:

1. Batteries can cause ELECTRICAL SHOCK. Do not lay tools, wires or conducting materials across the tops of the batteries such that the positive and negative post or connectors can make an electrical short circuit. Always replace removed safety shrouds on batteries with external connectors.
   
    
2. Battery acid can cause SEVERE ACID BURNS. At a minimum, always wear approved safety glasses and rubber gloves. If handling large amounts of acid, such as when filling a dry-charged battery, wear goggles and a rubber apron. Wear a face shield if available or when very large quantities of acid are being transferred. Always add acid to water NEVER water to acid.
   
    
3. Lead acid batteries produce hydrogen, which can cause EXPLOSIONS. Never smoke or allow open flame around a battery on charge. Proper charge settings and procedures must be used and followed. See bulletin #507. Batteries should be vented when charging.
   
    
4. Lead acid batteries are extremely heavy and proper lifting procedures must be used to avoid personal INJURY. It is recommended steel toe shoes be worn when working around a battery.
   
    
5. Only fill batteries with distilled water or approved soft water. Fill to original level. NEVER fill batteries with seawater, as DEADLY CHLORINE GAS will be liberated.
   
    
6. If you ever have any questions, comments or concerns please call your dealer or Rolls directly at 1-800-681-9914 for assistance. MSDS's are available upon request.
   
    
7. Avoid the urge to install your batteries inside you living space.  Where ever you store your batteries be sure that the space is well ventilated and that there are no open flames or any devices that can cause a spark. 
   
    
8. Always check to see that your cables are tight and that there are no loose cables. Loose cables can cause the flow of electric through them to seek the path of least resistance thus causing hazardous sparking.