1996 Mercury Tracer Owner's Manual - Page 205
1996 Mercury Tracer Manual
Page 205 highlights
RWARNING Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. Always check the Brake Warning Light each time you start your engine. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and will reduce the fuel economy. RWARNING If the parking brake is fully released, but the Brake System light remains on, have the brakes checked immediately. They may not be working properly. RWARNING To prevent personal injury, do not release the parking brake while outside the vehicle. The parking brake is not designed to stop a moving vehicle, but you can use the parking brake to stop your vehicle in an emergency if the normal brakes fail. However, since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected. 205