1997 Ford Escort Battery light

Battery light coming on means that the alternator is not giving the right amount of electricity that the engine needs to operate. As you have been driving it around, starting and stopping several times, the battery is now out of power (as you have been draining the battery while driving the car).

You need to fully charge the battery before using the car again. Do not attempt to install the battery to another car so the alternator will charge the battery, you will need to use an external battery charger. Once the battery is fully charged, take the vehicle to an auto parts store to have your entire electrical (starting and charging) system checked. On the way, try not to use any unnecessary accessories (radio, heater, lights, etc.). I suspect either bad connection from the alternator to the battery or bad alternator itself.