1997 Mercury Cougar Owner's Manual - Page 154

To set the parking brake while parking your vehicle, apply the brake pedal with your right foot and hold it while you push the parking brake down firmly with your left foot. The brake system warning light will glow. The parking brake RWARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. To release the parking brake, press down on the pedal until you hear a click. Lift your foot off the pedal. The brake is now released and will reset to lock the next time you press the pedal, located below the lower left corner of the instrument panel. The Brake System Warning Light will glow if the parking brake is not fully released when the engine 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. 153