Gasoline Safety & Tip

If you must have gasoline around the house:

• Always store it in approved safety containers - these can be expensive, but it is cheap "fire insurance"
• Always have a fire extinguisher marked for "B" type fires (Gasoline and other flammable liquids) - Be sure you know how to use it!
• Always keep the minimum amount of gas required
• Always store the container in a cool and well ventilated area. Keep it away from any source of heat or sparks such as water heater, electric motor or car engines
• Always store the containers in the garage or shed rather than the house
• Never carry gasoline in the trunk of your car
• Always keep gasoline away from children
• Never siphon gasoline by sucking the hose; gasoline can be fatal to adults too, if swallowed
• Never use gasoline as a cleaner, a charcoal starter or a solvent

If you or your child should ever swallow gasoline, then

• Move the child away from the gasoline source; then secure the gasoline safely
• Call your doctor or Poison Center immediately, or call 911
• Never induce vomiting; the same is true kerosene, lighter fluid and fuel oil
• For gasoline on clothing - remove the clothing and dispose of carefully
• For gasoline of skin - use lots of warm soapy water to reduce the risk of chemical burns

If you do have a gasoline fire and don't have a "ABC" type fire extinguisher

• Get everyone away from the fire
• Call the Fire department by dialing 911
• Stay calm
• Never use water to put out a gasoline fire