- Always store a 9 volt battery upright so the terminals are on top. Don't put anything on top of the terminals. This ensures that the terminals don't come into contact with metal objects or other battery terminals. While 9 volts is not particularly high in voltage terms, if a metal object, such as a small, coin touches both terminals, the battery is effectively short-circuited. The coin and battery will get hot, and, if left unattended, a fire could result.
- Batteries are hermetically sealed, which means it is unlikely for a leak to occur. However, batteries can eventually leak, particularly if they are old. You can usually tell if there is leakage because corrosion appears at the point of the leak. Check your batteries regularly for leaks. If you suspect a leaking battery, put on a pair of protective gloves and dispose of the battery using the correct recycling procedure, according to the label on the battery. Wipe any residue from the battery that's touched other surfaces using a disposable cloth and detergent.
- Don't expose a 9 volt, or any other type of battery, to high temperatures. The battery casing is metal and absorbs heat, which transfers to the chemicals inside the battery. Expansion occurs and the battery may split open, releasing dangerous chemicals or, at worst, exploding. This is particularly true for lithium batteries.
- Keep batteries away from young children. If a 9 volt battery gets in a child's mouth, the child will get an electric shock, and if the battery has leaked, the chemicals are extremely dangerous. Replace batteries in smoke or carbon monoxide detectors regularly. The small price you pay to replace a battery, even if it's not discharged, is worth it for these life saving devices.
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