What hazards do batteries present to fire fighters?

Batteries, particularly lead-acid batteries, present several hazards to firefighters, primarily due to the dangerous substances they contain and the potential reactions during a fire incident. Sulfuric acid is a key component in these batteries, and it is highly corrosive. When batteries are involved in a fire, the sulfuric acid can leak, create toxic fumes, or cause severe chemical burns upon contact with skin. This necessitates special care when firefighters are responding to incidents involving batteries, as they must be equipped with personal protective equipment to guard against these acidic exposures.

Additionally, sulfuric acid can react with water, producing heat and potentially causing splattering or boiling, which adds to the danger. Hence, understanding the presence of sulfuric acid in batteries not only highlights the chemical hazards but also informs proper response protocols to ensure firefighter safety during such incidents.