Precautions When Working With Batteries - Xantrex Freedom SW Series Owner's Manual

NOTES:
1. Follow these instructions and those published by the battery
manufacturer and the manufacturer of any equipment you intend to use
in the vicinity of the battery. Review cautionary markings on these
products and on the engine.
2. This inverter/charger contains components which tend to produce arcs
or sparks.
3. Locations include any space containing gasoline-powered machinery,
fuel tanks, as well as joints, fittings, or other connections between
components of the fuel system.

Precautions When Working With Batteries

BURN FROM HIGH SHORT-CIRCUIT CURRENT, FIRE AND
EXPLOSION FROM VENTED GASES HAZARDS
• Always wear proper, non-absorbent gloves, complete eye protection,
and clothing protection. Avoid touching your eyes and wiping your
forehead while working near batteries. See note #4.
• Remove all personal metal items, like rings, bracelets, and watches
when working with batteries. See notes #5 and #6 below.
• Never smoke or allow a spark or flame near the engine or batteries.
• Never charge a frozen battery.
Failure to follow these instructions can result in death or serious injury.
NOTES:
1. Mount and place the Freedom SW Inverter/Charger unit away from
batteries in a well ventilated compartment.
97-0019-01-01
2. Always have someone within range of your voice or close enough to
come to your aid when you work near a lead-acid battery.
3. Always have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid
contacts skin, clothing, or eyes.
4. If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap
and water. If acid enters your eye, immediately flood it with running
cold water for at least twenty minutes and get medical attention
immediately.
5. Use extra caution to reduce the risk or dropping a metal tool on the
battery. It could spark or short circuit the battery or other electrical
parts and could cause an explosion.
6. Batteries can produce a short circuit current high enough to weld a ring
or metal bracelet or the like to the battery terminal, causing a severe
burn.
7. When removing a battery, always remove the negative terminal from
the battery first for systems with grounded negative. If it is grounded
positive, remove the positive terminal first. Make sure all loads
connected to the battery and all accessories are off so you don't cause
an arc.
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