8 Most Dangerous Things You Can Do While Pumping Gas

Stopping at the gas station is something we all do, but it’s easy to forget just how risky it can be if we’re not careful. Most of us know better than to smoke or play with our phones while filling up, but there are plenty of other safety tips that slip under the radar. These are 8 of the most dangerous things you can do at the gas pump.

Smoking at the Pump

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It might seem obvious, but it’s crucial: never smoke, use a lighter, or strike a match at or near a gas pump. The combination of open flames and gasoline vapors can lead to a dangerous, potentially disastrous fire. Always keep anything that can ignite away from the pump.

Not Handling Gasoline Spills Carefully

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If you accidentally spill gasoline on yourself, you need to act fast. Wash any gasoline off your skin using lukewarm water and soap to prevent irritation. If gasoline gets into your eyes, flush them with tap water for at least 15 minutes and carefully remove any contact lenses. Remember, never rub your eyes after contact with gasoline to avoid further irritation.

Overfilling Your Car

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Don’t try to squeeze in extra gas after the pump clicks off. This feature is designed to prevent overfilling, which can cause spills. Spilled gasoline is a major fire hazard. Trust the pump to know when your tank is full and avoid any risky overflows.

Leaving Your Car On While Refueling

Make it a habit to turn off your car’s engine and any electronic accessories like phone chargers and GPS units before you start pumping gas. These devices might seem harmless, but they can be a hidden hazard, capable of igniting fuel vapors with just a tiny spark. Keeping everything off not only prevents potential fire risks but also ensures a safer refueling environment for everyone at the station.

Opening Your Car Door While Refueling

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Stepping back into your vehicle while filling up might not sound like a big deal, but it’s a risky move. Every time you slide in and out of your seat, you’re potentially building up static electricity. If you then touch the fuel pump, that static can discharge as a spark. With fuel vapors in the air, this spark has the potential to trigger a fire.

Looking At Your Cellphone

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It’s best to avoid using your cellphone at the gas pump. While the risk of sparking a fire with your phone is low, the real danger lies in distraction. Staying off your phone helps you remain aware of your surroundings and focused on safely refueling your car without any slip-ups.

Using the Wrong Gas Containers

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When filling up a portable container with gasoline, make sure it’s specifically designed for fuel storage. Always place the container on the ground to avoid static electricity build-up, which can occur if it’s left in your vehicle or held while filling. Secure the cap tightly after filling, and remove the container from your vehicle as soon as you arrive at your destination to prevent any risk of fumes accumulating inside your car.

Transporting Gas Without Care

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Transporting gasoline requires caution. Ensure the container is firmly secured within your vehicle to prevent it from tipping and spilling. Avoid leaving gasoline containers in direct sunlight or in a hot trunk. Heat can cause the gasoline to expand and potentially release dangerous vapors or even rupture the container.