Luckilly Hydrochloric acid isn't all that harmfull (a quick wash with water. Long exposure can cause some problems), compared to sulphuric acid.

That really depends on how concentrated it is. If it is dilute, not really a biggie as long as you wash it off with water.

However 12 molar HCl will cause chemical burns even if you do wash it off. Definitely not something to fool with.

I want to know where the little punks are getting the HCl. If they're stealing it from school - they ought to be double-punished.

If they're making it themselves, then the brilliant little chemists should still be punished and shown some safer but really cool chemistry.

I always carry 10% HCl with me, because it makes any calcite/limestone fizz like there's nothing else. It's also corroded a nice hole in my vest.