Jump Start Safety

Safety precautions should be taken when jump starting a dead battery.

Jump starting a car with a dead battery is a trouble-free procedure, but safety precautions must be followed when dealing with electrical current and an engine component containing battery acid.

Inspection

The battery should be checked for any cracks, corrosion at the bottom or at the battery posts, or for any loose or exposed wiring.

The Vehicles

The vehicles must be placed in park, all accessories turned off and the battery positive (+) and negative (-) clearly identified.

Jumper Cables

It's advisable to invest in a quality heavy-gauge pair of jumper cables with rubberized grips, and red (positive) and black (negative) wires.

Safety Goggles

Eye goggles marked with a Z-87 safety label denoting auto repair certification should be worn.

No Smoking

There should be no smoking because the battery contains hydrogen and oxygen gases that could ignite and cause an explosion if sparked.

Starting the Car

Attach the appropriate cables to the positive and negative posts of each vehicle's batteries, and start the car with the dead battery. Make sure bystanders are standing clear of the engine compartment.

References

• Eye Safety
• Basic Safety Techniques
• Jump Starting Tips

Resources

• Safety Basics