The number of static electricity-related refueling fires has decreased steadily over the last five years -- from 31 in 2001 to just two in 2006 across the United States, according to recent data. While this is good news, these incidents cannot be considered an urban myth, so you have to know what to do in case it happens to you.
The American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) launched a safety campaign called "Stop Static" to remind drivers how to avoid potential problems with static electricity at gas pumps.
The main guideline to follow is to remain outside the vehicle while refueling, even though the warm interior is tempting during cold winter days. Remember that it only takes two minutes, on average, to fill up the tank. If you must re-enter your vehicle, be sure to discharge any static that may have built up by touching with a bare hand a metal part of the vehicle away from the nozzle.
The PEI also recommends to always put portable gasoline storage containers on the ground to fill them and to keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the container.
If bad luck strikes, don't pull out the nozzle; just back away. This will help prevent any fire from worsening. Notify the station attendant immediately to shut off all dispensing devices and pumps. If the facility is unattended, use the emergency shutdown button to shut off the pump.
For more safety tips at the gas pump, see PEI's web site.
The American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) launched a safety campaign called "Stop Static" to remind drivers how to avoid potential problems with static electricity at gas pumps.
 |
| Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com |
The PEI also recommends to always put portable gasoline storage containers on the ground to fill them and to keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the container.
If bad luck strikes, don't pull out the nozzle; just back away. This will help prevent any fire from worsening. Notify the station attendant immediately to shut off all dispensing devices and pumps. If the facility is unattended, use the emergency shutdown button to shut off the pump.
For more safety tips at the gas pump, see PEI's web site.