How To Safely Store Fuel During Gas Shortages

With high gas prices lingering across the United States, many motorists want to store extra fuel when they find gas available for a low price. While saving gasoline may seem like a smart idea, experts warn storing gas improperly can have disastrous results. This guide covers tips for securely and safely handling gasoline.

Dangers of Unsafe Gas Storage

“You should only use tested, certified fuel containers, not household items like buckets or milk jugs,” said Dan Marshall of Scepter, a gas can manufacturer. Pouring gas into a bucket, water bottle, or similar containers is hazardous because:

• Gasoline can leak, creating an explosive vapor risk.
• Many plastics degrade over time when in contact with gas, leading to leaks.
• Containers without flame arrestors can ignite from static discharge.
• Spills create environmental and health hazards, damaging the ecosystem.

Using the wrong container also endangers your life and health when transporting and pouring fuel. A tipped plastic bucket or torn bag leads to dangerous spills. If you’re trying to save money, don’t neglect your safety by using an improper container.

Storing Gasoline Safely

Instead of using household containers to save gas, we recommend using portable gas cans designed to hold fuel. Look for:

• Cans made in the United States and that have child safety locks
• Cans with integrated flame-mitigation devices to prevent ignition
• Cans that are compliant with regulations from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to prevent vapor leaks
• Cans with a unique push-button spout for safe pouring

When storing fuel:

• Keep fuel-saving cans in cool, ventilated areas away from ignition sources.
• Use a tray to catch potential leaks and spills.
• Fill cans at a gas pump but never when they’re inside a vehicle, in a trunk or truck bed.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Quality gas cans allow safe handling. Never risk unapproved containers that endanger you and others. Follow additional gasoline storage tips for maximum safety.

Avoiding Gas Savings Scams

When gas prices rise, fraudulent “fuel saver” products often appear online and in stores, making dubious claims about improving gas mileage. But agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Federal Trade Commission warn that these additives and devices do not work as advertised.

Steer clear of the following types of gas-saving scams:

• Fuel line magnets or vapor-increasing pills
• Unverified aftermarket intake and exhaust devices
• Hydrogen kits making unrealistic better gas mileage claims
• Fuel stabilizers marketed as efficiency boosters