Fuel Storage and Safety - Fuel Types - Gasoline

Gasoline is a useful and important part of our everyday lives. It is commonly used by individuals and families on a daily basis. With the concerns regarding the possibility of a gasoline shortage combined with high fuel prices, more people are storing gasoline for future use. Gasoline is a highly flammable liquid and should be stored only when you are aware of the safe and proper methods of storage. It is extremely important to realize the dangers of storing this highly flammable liquid.

Your local fire department and state fire marshal are the first places you should check for regulations concerning safe gasoline storage. Many local and state fire codes and regulations place restrictions on the amount of gasoline an individual homeowner can store at their residence (this is normally limited to 25 gallons or less). Regulations and rules will vary from state to state.

The following simple precautions will help keep you and your family safe when using or storing gasoline.

Special Note: Extreme Caution Is Always Needed When Using and Storing Gasoline

Tips for Safe Gasoline Storage

1,) Always use approved safety containers as required by federal or state authorities. (Gasoline containers are normally RED)

2.) Never store gasoline in glass containers or non-reusable plastic containers such as milk jugs or drinking water or plastic soda bottles.

3.). Always store gasoline outside your home in a garage or outside storage shed. Never store gasoline inside your home. Never store gasoline in the trunk of your car or place storage containers in direct sunlight.

4.) Never store or use gasoline near any possible sources of ignition (water heaters, furnaces, etc.). Gasoline fuel vapors are heavier than air.

5.) Never smoke, or use matches, lighters or cell phones around gasoline.

6.) Never store excess quantities of gasoline beyond your needs as it is a highly flammable liquid and a potential explosive hazard.

7.) Keep all gasoline containers tightly closed and use care in their handling and transport to avoid spills. Always allow for the expansion of gasoline. Never overfill containers.

8.) Handle gasoline outdoors so as to get the maximum possible ventilation. Always avoid breathing gasoline vapors.

9.) Never use gasoline as a solvent, cleaner, or barbecue starter. Never use gasoline in kerosene heaters or lamps or combine with other fuels such as kerosene or diesel. This will create an immediate explosive hazard.

10.) Always take steps to discharge static electricity as this can build up on you or the storage container. Always turn off your cell phones and the engines on your equipment during any fueling operation.

Important Note: Long term storage of gasoline requires treatment with an additive such as Sta-bil, protection from moisture and proper rotation of your stored gasoline to maintain quality.

Gasoline is an important and useful part of our daily lives. It is important to remember that gasoline can be dangerous if not handled or stored properly. Gasoline should only be used for its intended purpose and stored only when it is absolutely necessary. Always practice safety in the use of gasoline.

You can read other fuel storage safety tips here: Fuel Storage and Safety – Fuel Types - LPG

Remember, SAFETY IS NO ACCIDENT!

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker