1996 Mercury Sable Owner's Manual - Page 245

RWARNING Be careful when lifting a battery that is in a plastic case. If you put too much pressure on the ends, you could spill acid from the vent caps, causing serious damage to the vehicle and injury to yourself. Lift the battery with a carrier or with your hands on the opposite corners. Do not let children touch the battery. Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns skin, eyes, and clothing. If the acid touches someone's skin, eyes, or clothing, immediately flush the area with water for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the acid, have him or her drink lots of milk or water first, then Milk of Magnesia, a beaten egg, or vegetable oil. Call a doctor immediately. To avoid damaging your vehicle or your battery, and to avoid injury to yourself, follow these directions for preparing your vehicle to jump-start and connecting the jumper cables in the order they are given. If in doubt, call for road service. Preparing Your Vehicle 1. Your vehicle has a 12-volt starting system, so you need to use a 12-volt jumper system. You will damage your starting motor, ignition system, and other electrical parts if you connect them to a 24-volt power supply (either two 12-volt batteries in series or a 24-volt generator set). 218