Did you know that there are over 5000 fires and explosions in gas stations each year says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. Almost two-thirds involved vehicles.
Make sure when you pull up and prepare to pass gas to your vehicle, gas can or other source from the pump, you turn off your vehicle engine. Put your vehicle in park and set the emergency brake.
Do not smoke, light matches or lighters while refueling at the pump or when using gasoline anywhere else. Use only the refueling latch provided on the gasoline dispenser nozzle. Do not re-enter your vehicle during refueling. If you cannot avoid re-entering your vehicle, discharge any static build-up BEFORE reaching for the nozzle by touching something metal with a bare hand – such as the vehicle door – away from the nozzle.
In the event a fire occurs when refueling, leave the nozzle in the fill pipe and back away from the vehicle. Notify the station attendant immediately. Do not over-fill or top-off your vehicle tank, which can cause gasoline spillage.
Never allow children under licensed driving age to operate the pump. Contact your local fire department for additional safety tips!
Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
