> smell is really bad.
Toxic, don't keep the stuff indoors. search on
lithium primary battery fire
This is a good summary of safety procedures for lithium primaries:
http://www.whoi.edu/cms/files/LithiumBatterySafetyGuideSG10_26006.pdf
excerpts follow:
4.0 CELL HANDLING PROCEDURES
Inadvertent short circuits are the major cause of failures for both Lithium (Primary) and Lithium Ion (Secondary) cells. Problems associated with shorting as well as other hazardous conditions can be reduced by observing the following guidelines:
• Wear safety glasses whenever handling batteries.
• Remove jewelry items such as rings, wristwatches, pendants, etc., that could come in contact
with the battery terminals.
• All dented cells or batteries with dented cells should be disposed, regardless of electrolyte leakage. Denting of sides or ends increases the likelihood of developing an internal short circuit at a later time.
...
Cells should not be forced into battery holders or other types of housings. This could deform the bottom of the case causing an internal short circuit. Furthermore, the terminal cap could be crushed putting pressure on the glass-to-metal seal. This could result in a cell venting. Check for proper fit before inserting the cells into any type of housing.
• Excessive force should not be used to free a cell or battery lodged inside the housing.
Store the cells in an isolated area, away from combustible materials. Store depleted cells in an area separate from fresh cells. Allow space for complete encapsulation with Lith-X in the event of a fire.
• Any Primary Lithium battery storage area should have immediate access to both a class D and an ABC fire extinguisher.
• Never stack heavy objects on top of boxes containing lithium batteries to preclude crushing or puncturing the cell case. Severe damage can lead to internal short circuits resulting in a cell venting or explosion.
• Do not allow excessive quantities of cells to accumulate in any storage area.
...
8.0 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
8.1 Releases from Cells (Vented, Leaked or Exploded)
The electrolyte contained within the lithium cells can cause severe irritation to the respiratory tract, eyes and skin. In addition, violent cell venting could result in a room full of hazardous air contaminants, including corrosive or flammable vapors. All precautions should be taken to limit exposure to the electrolyte vapor. Review the MSDS or product information sheet PRIOR to working with cells, so that you are familiar with the steps to take in the event of a release....