2002 Toyota Prius Owners Manual - Page 231

Checking auxiliary battery condition- -Precautions CAUTION AUXILIARY BATTERY PRECAUTIONS When the auxiliary battery must be replaced, use the Prius designated battery. The auxiliary battery produces flammable and explosive hydrogen gas. EMERGENCY MEASURES -Checking auxiliary battery exterior Terminals D If electrolyte gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water and get immediate medical attention. If possible, continue to apply water with a sponge or cloth while en route to the medical office. D If electrolyte gets on your skin, thoroughly wash the contact area. If you feel pain or burn, get medical attention immediately. Hold-down clamp Ground cable Check the battery for corroded or loose terminal connections, cracks, or loose hold-down clamp. a. If the battery is corroded, wash it off with a solution of warm water and baking soda. Coat the outside of the terminals with grease to prevent further corrosion. b. If the terminal connections are loose, tighten their clamp nuts-but do not overtighten. c. Tighten the hold-down clamp only enough to keep the battery firmly in place. Overtightening may damage the battery case. D Do not cause a spark from the battery with tools. D Do not smoke or light a match near the battery. The electrolyte contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid. D If electrolyte gets on your clothes, there is a through to ly take off follow the essary. possibility of its soaking your skin, so immediatethe exposed clothing and procedure above, if nec- D Avoid contact with eyes, skin or clothes. D Never ingest electrolyte. D Wear protective safety glasses when working near the battery. D If you accidentally swallow electrolyte, drink a large quantity of water or milk. Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten raw egg or vegetable oil. Then go immediately for emergency help. D Warning: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. D Keep children away from the battery. 222