Hydrogen burns with explosive force in an atmosphere of air or oxygen. For this reason flames and sparks should be kept away from storage batteries at all times.

(B) CARE OF BATTERIES-GENERAL

A storage battery can be charged and discharged for an indefinite period if properly taken care of.

41. Cleanliness. -The batteries should be kept clean and dry. If electrolyte is spilled or if any parts are damp with acid, apply a solution of baking soda or ammonia, then rinse well with water and dry the battery. The cleaning solution should not be allowed to get into the cells. A suitable solution of baking soda can be made up by dissolving a pound of ordinary baking soda in a gallon of water. Ordinary household ammonia is equally satisfactory so far as neutralizing the acid is concerned, but its strong odor is often found to be objectionable.

Sulphuric acid is very corrosive in its action and will ruin clothing if allowed to remain for even a short time. It should be neutralized immediately when spilled so as to prevent corrosion. If the terminals of the battery are corroded they should be scraped clean, washed with a soda or ammonia solution and rinsed thoroughly. After they have dried, a thin layer of vaseline should be applied to prevent further corrosion. Vaseline can be applied easily, by means of a small paint brush, if it is heated to make it a liquid. There will be no corrosion unless electrolyte is spilled and allowed to remain unneutralized.

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