1.) The car battery charger should only be operated in an area with good ventilation. Highly flammable gas can be given off when the battery is charged and in a well-ventilated area it won’t build up to a hazardous level.
2.) Avoid smoking or having anything with a flame in the vicinity of the battery during the charging. Also keep anything which may spark (electrical appliances or electric motor) a safe distance from the battery.
3.) If you are using metal tools, avoid short circuiting between the battery terminals. Also avoid short circuiting between the terminals to the vehicle bodywork or engine.
4.) It is important that when car battery chargers are used, they should be connected to the car battery prior to starting the battery charger. Potentially dangerous sparking with the possibility of flammable gas ignition will be avoided.
5.) Always read the charger manufacturers instructions and adhere to them at all times. If you have a charger with no instructions you should obtain a copy of the instructions before first use.
6.) When opening up the battery’s cells for checking the levels of electrolyte or adding water, eye protection is a must and you should also put on protective gloves. The corrosive acid in the battery could potentially cause burns on the skin and eyes.
7.) If you are opening the battery cells, have some clean water available to hand. This can be used for rinsing eyes or skin if splashed with battery acid.
8.) Car batteries which have discharged are susceptible to freezing in low temperatures. If there is a possibility that the battery is frozen, thaw it before attempting to charge or it may burst and leak.
9.) Try to use the car battery charger on the lowest possible Amp setting. This will help to extend the battery life and avoid overheating the battery.
10.) Site the charger as far as possible from the car battery. You should also keep pets and people out of the area where you are charging.
Be safe, see Peter Martin’s site for more 12v charger information and essential 12v charger safety tips.
