When I was at the gas station filling up my car's tank the other day, I noticed the woman
next to me chatting away on her phone while she was pumping gas. Her car was running. I'm all for doing a few things at once when it is safe to do so; multi-tasking while pumping gas is not safe.
Before your next stop at the gas station, it's important to be aware
of some key practices to avoid. Here are ten things you should never do when refueling your vehicle:
1. Leave Your Engine Running: Pumping gas with your engine operational poses both safety and environmental risks. Switch off your ignition to prevent potential sparks (which can cause a fire) and you'll be
helping to ensure a safer refueling experience.
2. Use Your Phone: While waiting for your tank to fill, refrain from using your phone. Static electricity from electronic devices can ignite gasoline vapors, posing a fire hazard. Plus, being on your phone is distracting. Keep it stowed away to mitigate this
risk.
3. Smoke: Smoking at the gas pump is not only dangerous but also prohibited for obvious reasons. Keep all smoking materials, including cigarettes and lighters, away from the pump area to prevent potential fires.
4. Overfill the Tank: While it may be tempting to maximize your fuel capacity, overfilling your tank can lead to spills and fuel wastage. Respect the nozzle click as an indicator to cease refueling, preventing unnecessary spills and associated hazards.
5. Leave the Nozzle Unattended: Stay vigilant and remain with your vehicle while refueling. Unattended nozzles can lead to spills or equipment malfunctions, necessitating immediate intervention to prevent accidents.
6. Ignore Warning Signs: Any unusual smells, sounds, or
equipment malfunctions should not be disregarded. Promptly notify station attendants of any anomalies to mitigate potential safety risks and equipment damage.
7. Leave Your Car: Gas pump areas are designated for refueling, not parking. Avoid leaving your vehicle unattended at the pump, ensuring efficient traffic flow
and preventing obstruction for other drivers. If you have to use the restroom or stop inside for a snack, finish getting your gas and then safely move your vehicle to a designated parking spot.
8. Use the Wrong Fuel Grade: Familiarize yourself with your vehicle's fuel requirements and ensure compliance with the correct
fuel grade. Using an incompatible fuel grade can compromise engine performance and lead to costly repairs.
9. Ignore Safety Equipment: Familiarize yourself with the location and operation of safety equipment, including fire extinguishers and emergency shut-off switches. In the event of an emergency, swift action can
help prevent or mitigate potential hazards.
10. Drive Off Without Double-Checking: Prior to departing the gas station, perform a thorough check to ensure all refueling procedures are completed. Verify nozzle removal, fuel cap closure, and payment completion to avoid potential oversights and associated
problems.
Always fuel responsibly. You'll be keeping yourself and others safe.
