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Gasoline & Firesafety

Gasoline provides the energy needed to operate our cars, trucks, lawnmowers and other lawn care equipment, boats, a variety of off-road vehicles, and motorcycles. However, gasoline can be dangerous if not handled or stored properly. The City of Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau encourages everyone to consider the following fire safety tips involving the use, handling and storage of gasoline this summer season:

Keep gasoline away from ignition sources like heat, sparks, and flames. Do not smoke near gasoline.

When filling a vehicle, shut off the vehicle’s engine. Disable or turn off any auxiliary sources of ignition such as a camper or trailer heater, cooking units, or pilot lights.

When filling a portable container, the container must be placed on the ground, and the nozzle must stay in contact with the container when filling, to prevent buildup and discharge of static electricity. Do not fill a container in or on a vehicle, including in car trunks or truck beds. (Placing the container on the ground minimizes any static electricity buildup that could lead to a spark and cause a fire.) Fill the container at a slow rate. This will decrease the chance of static ignition buildup and minimize incidents of spillage or splattering. Fill container no more than 95 percent full to allow for expansion. Manually control the nozzle valve throughout the filling process.

When transporting gasoline in a portable container make sure the container is secure from tipping and sliding, and never leave in the direct sunlight or in the trunk of a car.

Only store gasoline in containers with approved labels. Metal safety cans (difficult for consumers to find in typical retails stores) which include self-closing pour spout and flame arrestor are preferred. Never store gasoline in glass or unapproved containers. .

Use gasoline only in open areas that get plenty of fresh air. Handle gasoline outdoors only.

Gasoline should only be used for its intended purpose, as a motor fuel, and stored only when absolutely necessary. It should not be used as a solvent, cleaner, barbecue starter or for any other non-engine use. Never use gasoline to wash your hands. Do not use gasoline in any appliance not intended for gasoline.

Remove gasoline-soaked clothing immediately.

Gasoline is a flammable liquid and should be stored at room temperature, away from potential heat sources such as the sun, a hot water heater, space heater or a furnace, and away from ignition sources. Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and can travel along the floor to ignition sources. Therefore, appliance pilot lights or igniters should be kept more than 50 feet from where gasoline is stored or handled, and elevated.

Store gasoline in a building separate from the house, business or place of occupancy, such as a secured shed or garage. Always keep gasoline out of reach from children.

Put gasoline in a small engine (like a lawnmower) only when the engine and attachments are cool.

Always have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.

More Information: Shelton Fire Marshals Office at 924-1555, or US Fire Administration website: www.usfa.fema.gov