Question: What are the safety considerations regarding the charging of electric wheelchair and scooter batteries? Is it true that they shouldn't be charged in the bedroom where you are sleeping due to the danger of fire and vapor hazards? ~Susan

Answer: - Batteries can be dangerous objects and they should be recharged in well-ventilated spaces. There are two types of batteries used for wheelchairs - wet and gel type batteries. With a wet battery you have to add distilled water to it about every two months. These batteries can be permanently damaged if the water level falls below the level of the battery plates. It can be difficult adding water to wet batteries as they are generally heavy and hard to reach. If you have a wet battery you should use distilled water only. Tap water contains minerals that can damage the battery. Don't overfill the battery either. If the outside of the battery is wet then it has been overfilled. You should fill it to about 1/8- inch below the ring in the hole. If you can't see very well you should use a flashlight to see the level properly. If the battery is overfilled the battery acid will leak and will ruin the battery connections. Make sure you don't short circuit the battery terminal with any metal as the sparks could ignite the gas in the battery and cause an explosion. Don't smoke when charging the battery and don't get battery acid on your skin or in your eyes. You should always use gloves and eye protection when handling a battery. When finished, makes sure you replace the caps on the battery tightly and wipe up any spills.