All vehicle batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce hydrogen and oxygen gases. If the hydrogen gas comes into contact with a spark, the battery can explode, sending pieces of the battery and acid flying. Pieces of the battery can cut into the eye, while the sulfuric acid can severely burn the delicate eye tissue.

If a battery should explode and acid gets in the eyes, flush the affected eye with the first drinkable liquid available, such as water, milk, juice or a soft drink. The longer you wait, the greater the chances of a serious eye injury. If you are alone, flush the eye for at least 15 minutes and then seek emergency medical attention.

In an effort to help people learn proper jump-start safety, the Sight & Hearing Association offers a free jump-start safety sticker. These fluorescent self-stick guides — perfect for placement underneath the hood of a vehicle — provide do's and don'ts for a proper jump-start as well as a diagram showing the proper placement of jumper cables. For a sticker, send a stamped-self-addressed envelope to Sight & Hearing Association, c/o Jump-Start Safety Campaign, 674 Transfer Rd., St. Paul, MN 55114-1402.