Community Corner

LFD Chief Offers Summer Safety Tips

BBQers should take notice of the dangers of gasoline accidents.

As the temperature gauge rises, the chances of an accident increase, particularly when using gasoline as a fuel source. It is easy to forget that gasoline is very dangerous if not properly handled or stored. Gasoline expands and contracts based on the surrounding temperature, and the number one hazard of gasoline is fire or explosion. While liquid gasoline does not burn, gasoline vapors do and since vapors are heavier than air, they move close to the ground and can collect in low areas. Gasoline vapors can be ignited by cigarettes, matches, hot exhaust pipe or any spark with the same force as 14 sticks of dynamite.

“Refueling gas powered equipment in the summer heat is particularly dangerous, especially if the engine is hot,” explained Livingston Fire Chief Chris Mullin. “Overfilling the gas tank is perhaps the most common mistake. The gasoline can expand and overflow, spilling gas everywhere and creating a potentially explosive situation.”

“The second most common mistake is refilling an engine when it is still hot,” added Mullin. “For example, if you run out of fuel while mowing the lawn, turn the mower off and allow the engine to cool down before refueling. A lawnmower’s engine and exhaust can reach temperatures of 150 degrees or more on a hot summer day. And if gasoline is accidentally spilled on a hot engine or exhaust, the result could be a fire, an explosion, or both.”

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Safety Tips:

  1. Store gasoline in an approved (UF or CSA) metal, plastic container or fireproof container, outside the house, in a ventilated shed away from ignition sources.

  2. Always wipe up any spilled gas before starting or restarting a lawnmower or gas-powered equipment.
  3. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling gasoline, even if you didn’t spill any. Gasoline can cause the skin to dry and crack. If gasoline spills on clothing, remove the clothing immediately.

  4. Avoid prolonged breathing of gasoline vapors. Prolonged breathing of gasoline vapors can cause dizziness, nausea, or vomiting. Gasoline contains a toxic chemical called Benzene which is a known carcinogen.

  5. Do not siphon gasoline by mouth. If gasoline is swallowed it can cause vomiting, or if it enters the lungs, chemical pneumonia which can be fatal.

  6. Never use gasoline as a cleaner, solvent, or charcoal lighter. The vapors may float along the ground and contact an ignition source, causing an explosion.

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