Tips for Using Gasoline Safely

Although most of us can’t imagine life without gasoline, failing to use it cautiously can result in fires, injuries, or other disasters. It is highly flammable so store it only in safe and approved containers where fire can’t reach it.

Steps You Should Take To Operate Gasoline Safely

• Store gasoline in a container of about 20 liters designed for that purpose. Seal the container tightly to avoid spills.
• Only handle it outdoors, in a ventilated area. Place containers on flat ground before filling them up.
• Clean up minor spills immediately with rags, paper, or sawdust. Discard the clean-up materials only into a safe container, and NOT into toilets, drains, sewers, or garbage disposals.
• For larger spills, contact the local government or hazardous waste disposal center about the safest way to dispose of it.
• Do not store it in non-reusable plastic containers or glass containers.
• If possible, keep containers at room temperature. If a container is completely filled, which should be avoided, gasoline will expand at high temperatures and possibly cause a fire.
• Keep gasoline tanks outside the home, in a detached garage or lawn shed.
• Keep it at a safe distance (at least 15 meters) from heat sources, such as the sun, space heater, electrical generator, furnace, or other devices.
• When using gas-fueled machinery, such as a lawnmower or electrical generator, wait for these machines to cool off before refueling.
• Only use gasoline as a motor fuel and never as a cleaning agent or as fuel for kerosene heaters or lamps. Do not mix it with kerosene or diesel.
• Never smoke or ignite flames when handling gasoline.
• Do not allow children to handle gasoline.

Call PuroClean of North Simcoe and Muskoka for Disaster Restoration Services

Gasoline is one type of fuel that electrical generators use. This article provides important tips on how to use electrical generators safely. The PuroClean team stands ready to provide professional restoration services to any property affected by fire, water, or mould damage. Call us at (705) 710-0606.