10 Things You Should Never Do While Pumping Gas
Pumping gas might seem routine, but there are several safety risks that many drivers overlook. While most people know to avoid smoking at the pump, there are other less obvious dangers that can increase the risk of fire, spills, or even injury. Here are 10 things you should never do while refueling your vehicle to keep yourself and others safe.
1. Leave Your Engine Running
While it might be tempting to leave your engine idling on a cold or hot day, doing so increases the risk of gas vapors igniting. Gasoline fumes are highly flammable, and a running engine can generate sparks that pose a fire hazard. Always turn off your car before pumping gas to minimize this risk.
2. Use Your Phone
Although rare, cell phones have been linked to static electricity build-up, which can potentially ignite gasoline fumes. More commonly, distractions from texting or calls can cause you to overlook safety steps like shutting off your engine or properly replacing the gas cap. Keep your phone tucked away until you’ve finished refueling.
3. Get Back in Your Car While Pumping
Sliding in and out of your car during refueling can create static electricity. When you return to touch the gas nozzle, that spark can ignite gasoline vapors. If you must get back in your car, always touch something metal away from the gas nozzle before continuing to pump.
4. Top Off Your Tank
Trying to squeeze in extra fuel after the pump automatically stops is not only wasteful but dangerous. Overfilling can lead to spills, which increase the risk of fire and damage your car’s evaporative emissions system. Trust the automatic shutoff and stop there.
5. Ignore Fuel Spills
Even a small spill can create a serious hazard. If gasoline spills on the ground or your vehicle, inform the gas station attendant immediately. Many stations have absorbent materials designed to contain spills, reducing the risk of fire or environmental harm.
6. Block the Trigger with an Object
Propping the nozzle’s trigger open with your gas cap, keys, or another object may seem like a clever time-saver, but it’s dangerous. If the nozzle slips out or the pump malfunctions, gasoline can spill rapidly, creating a major fire risk. Always stay at the pump and let the auto-stop feature do its job.
7. Forget to Discharge Static Electricity
Static electricity can ignite gasoline vapors. To discharge static, touch a metal part of your vehicle (like the door frame) before grabbing the gas nozzle. This quick step can prevent a dangerous spark from occurring.
8. Use the Wrong Type of Container
If you’re filling a gas can, never use a glass or unapproved plastic container. Only certified gas cans designed to safely hold fuel should be used. Additionally, place the container on the ground rather than in your vehicle’s trunk or truck bed to prevent static build-up.
9. Overlook Warning Signs
Gas stations are filled with warning signs about safety risks. Ignoring those instructions, like “Do Not Leave Pump Unattended,” puts you at unnecessary risk. Taking an extra few seconds to read and follow posted guidelines is one of the simplest ways to stay safe.
10. Ignore Unusual Smells or Sounds
If you smell strong gas fumes or hear unusual sounds like hissing or clicking near the pump, stop refueling immediately and alert the station staff. These signs could indicate a leak or equipment malfunction that poses a serious safety risk.
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While pumping gas is second nature for most people, it’s easy to overlook important safety steps. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect yourself, your vehicle, and those around you. Next time you pull up to the pump, stay focused, follow best practices, and make safety your top priority.
Charlie Golsley
