WHISKEY

Chemical properties

Light-yellow to amber liquid. 47–53% alcohol by volume, flash p 26.6C (CC).

The Uses of WHISKEY

Beverage, medicine (stimulant, antiseptic, vasodilator).

Hazard

Flammable, moderate fire risk. A noncumulative poison; usually harmless in moderate amounts but may be toxic when habitually taken in large amounts.

Safety Profile

The carcinogen urethane is sometimes found in whiskey. The whiskey equivalent of 1 ounce of pure ethanol per capita per day has been cited as healthful to adults to relieve stress and promote relaxation. However, it is often abused, which can lead to habituation with consequent liver damage, malnutrition, and a wide variety of other physical and mental problems, including the development of cancer. A fire hazard when exposed to heat or flame. To fight fire, use water, water spray, alcohol foam, CO2, dry chemical. See also ETHANOL and URETHANE.