[KYHAM] Safely Storing Fuel

[Ron Dodson]

Many people are rushing to their local gas stations in anticipation of
possible $3+ gas prices and shortages to the point that many stations
are running out of fuel. While the wisdom of doing this is debatable on
both sides, if you are going to be setting some aside yourself, I
thought it prudent to remind you of doing it safely!

Gasoline is a highly volatile liquid, and its vapors can be ignited
easily by a spark, flame or other hot objects. When mixed with air in
the right proportions, the vapor of one cup of gasoline has the
explosive power of about five pounds of dynamite, enough destructive
force to destroy any house or car!

Storing gasoline and other highly flammable liquids at home is dangerous
if not done properly. The best way to store gasoline is in approved
containers and in a well ventilated area separate from the house. The
location should have no electrical equipment, open flames or other
sources of ignition present. In addition, the location should be
protected from the heat of the summer sun to keep evaporation to a
minimum. 

Do not store gasoline in the basement of your home or in the utility
room. The furnace, water heater, clothes dryer or any of several other
items could ignite fumes which may leak from the can and travel
considerable distances. If you do not have a suitable storage area,
consider building a cabinet outside your house for storage or purchasing
a commercially available flammable liquid storage cabinet, available
from safety equipment suppliers. 

In addition, never put gasoline or any other non-food material in a
container which resembles a food container(and how many people keep gas
in a milk jug!). Keep gasoline and other dangerous materials locked up.
These practices will prevent children from getting to the material and
being accidentally poisoned. 

Never smoke when handling gasoline and never refuel a hot or running
engine. Take a break if you must smoke or let the engine cool down. If
fuel is spilled, wipe it up immediately. Before starting the engine,
move at least 25 feet away from the fueling area to avoid igniting fuel
vapors which are heavier than air and may linger for some time. 

There will be times when it is necessary to carry a container of
gasoline in your car or truck, but try to keep it to a minimum. Hauling
gasoline can be dangerous. When you must carry gas, secure the can so
that it will not slide around or tip over if you must make sudden stops
or turns. Remove the container as soon as you get where you are going.
Let's use our heads and stay safe.

73, 
Ron Dodson, KA4MAP
SEC Ky