With all the stories about the future of electric cars, gasoline is still used for the majority of American automobiles. It’s also a common power source for lawnmowers, boats, and more. Machines powered by gas are generally more powerful and can run longer than the battery powered versions.
Gas can be more convenient, but it can also be dangerous. Gasoline fumes are very flammable and can lead to potential health risks. Not taking the proper safety precautions with gas can lead to a fire, an injury, or even an explosion.
The volatility of gasoline means that proper safety measures must always be taken to avoid an accident that leads to fire damage in Springfield Missouri.
Gas Can Safety Tips
Gasoline containers often have local or state storage regulations that must be followed, including fire codes and laws. This usually limits the amount stored in approved containers that are less than five gallons a piece. Gas should never be stored in glass or non-reusable plastic containers. Only use approved containers.
When filling, the gas container should be on the ground, and the nozzle for the fuel pump should be inside the container. Do not fill on an elevated surface, and only fill until it’s around 90% full to avoid spilling the gas. The lid should be tightly screwed on and kept in a location that’s at room temperature and at least 50 feet away from heat sources.
The reason you need to keep gasoline so far away from a heat source is that it’s not actually the gasoline itself that’s flammable. It’s the fumes.
If the fumes from a gas container in your John Deere room are too close to the pilot light of a nearby water heater in your basement, there is a real danger of a fire or possible explosion.
Keep gas containers outside of the home and away from children or pets.
Containers and Explosion Risks
When using gasoline in containers, do so correctly to prevent the risk of explosion. The highest risks for explosions include holding the can at an angle that maximizes fumes when pouring, having a very low volume of gas inside the container, using it at low temperatures, or using gas that has been stored for more than six months. Always fill machines with gas outdoors with plenty of ventilation.
Cleaning Up Spilled Gas
If the gas does spill, it must be cleaned up immediately. Do not let the gas sit or soak into the ground. Use rags, paper, or sawdust. The materials can then be placed in secure containers and disposed of through a local hazardous waste disposal center. Avoid discarding the gas in drains, garbage disposals, toilets, or sewers, as it could lead to groundwater contamination.
Gas for Machinery
When using gas to power any machinery like lawnmowers, make sure the machine is cooled off completely before adding fuel. Many engines are designed to use a specific type of gasoline. Never modify the engine to run on an alternate fuel. Machinery should be turned off before refueling.
Avoid using gas for an unintended purpose, using as a cleaning agent, using it in oil lamps, or mixing it with kerosene or diesel. Do not smoke or ignite any flames when handling gas and avoid letting children handle it. Gas should be kept out of their reach and out of sight.
Following these safety tips can help protect your family and your home from the risks of fire damage from improperly using gasoline. It’s important to always be cautious and use common sense when dealing with gasoline, as the fumes are highly flammable and can easily ignite under the right circumstances.
Your local fire department or hazardous waste facility can answer any questions about the storage or disposal of gasoline and how to stay safe.
If you do ever have fire damage due to a gasoline fire and need help with fire damage restoration, call the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration. They’ll make sure the job is done right.