Bromine is the only liquid nonmetallic element. It presents a serious health hazard, and maximum safety precautions should be taken when handling it. Lead in gasoline, however, has been drastically reduced, due to environmental considerations. This will greatly affect future production of bromine. Bromine is also used in making fumigants, flameproofing agents, water purification compounds, dyes, medicinals, sanitizers, inorganic bromides for photography, etc.
Organic bromides are also important.
CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, 1913-1995. David R. Lide, Editor in Chief.