Ford Mercury Villager 1997 Owner's Manual page 281

If you must work under the hood while the engine is running:
Set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift
is securely latched in P (Park). This will prevent your
vehicle from moving unexpectedly.
Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed and
do not remove it while the engine is running.
Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught
in moving parts. Take appropriate precautions with long hair.
Opening the Hood
1. Pull the hood release handle, located below the fuse panel
door.
Hood release handle location
Maintenance and Care
WARNING
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