Req 6 — Safe Storage & Handling

Liquids like gasoline, paint thinner, and kerosene are essential for many tasks, but they’re far more dangerous than most people realize. A gallon of gasoline contains the explosive energy of several sticks of dynamite.

Common Flammable & Combustible Liquids in Homes

Flash point = the lowest temperature at which a liquid produces enough vapor to ignite. Gasoline is so volatile that it can ignite even in freezing temperatures.

Safe Storage

General rules:

• Keep in approved containers. Never store flammable liquids in glass jars, plastic milk jugs, or food containers. Use containers designed for the liquid (e.g., red metal cans for gasoline, metal kerosene cans).
• Store outside the home. Flammable liquids should be in a garage, shed, or storage building—not inside living spaces.
• Keep away from heat and ignition sources. No smoking, no open flames, no hot surfaces within 20 feet.
• Keep containers tightly sealed. Vapors from open containers can travel and ignite elsewhere.
• Store in a cool location. Heat increases vapor pressure and fire risk.
• Keep quantities small. Don’t stockpile large amounts. Buy what you need and use it.
• Label everything clearly. No confusion about what’s in a container.
• Store away from children and pets.
• Ensure good ventilation. If storing in a garage, make sure air can circulate.

For gasoline specifically:

• Use only red, metal, approved gasoline containers (usually 1–5 gallons).
• Never store gasoline in a basement, attic, or living space.
• Do not store gasoline in a car trunk for extended periods.
• Never store gasoline near a water heater, furnace, or electrical equipment.

Safe Refueling

When refueling a lawn mower, chainsaw, generator, or outboard motor:

Before refueling:

1. Stop the engine and let it cool for at least 5 minutes. Hot engines can ignite gasoline vapors.
2. Move to a well-ventilated area, away from buildings, people, and ignition sources.
3. Never smoke or allow others to smoke.
4. If refueling a boat at a gas dock, follow the attendant’s instructions precisely.

During refueling:

1. Use a funnel. Pouring directly from a gas can into a small tank often spills gasoline.
2. Fill slowly. Splashing increases vapor release and spill risk.
3. Do not overfill. Stop when fuel reaches the filler neck, not higher.
4. Cap the fuel tank immediately once refueling is complete.
5. Replace the gas cap on the container.

After refueling:

1. Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine (let any spilled fuel evaporate).
2. Clean up any spills. Wipe up spilled gasoline with absorbent material (rags, sawdust, sand) and dispose of them in a safe location.
3. Store the gas can in its designated location.

At a gas station (refueling a car):

• Follow the attendant’s instructions.
• Ground yourself before touching the pump (static can ignite vapors).
• Do not smoke.
• Never leave the pump unattended while fueling.
• Do not overfill the tank.

Safe Disposal

Never pour flammable or hazardous liquids down a drain or onto the ground. They contaminate water, soil, and groundwater.

Find local disposal options:

• Hazardous waste collection days: Most communities hold annual or semi-annual events where residents can drop off flammable liquids, paint, batteries, and other hazardous waste for free.
• Call your city/county waste management: Ask for hazardous waste disposal locations and hours.
• Auto parts stores: Many (AutoZone, O’Reilly, NAPA) accept used motor oil and sometimes other fluids.
• Paint recycling programs: Some stores that sell paint accept used paint cans.
• Waste Management or Waste Connections: Call their hazardous waste hotline.

What you can NOT do:

• ❌ Burn it
• ❌ Pour it down a drain
• ❌ Pour it on the ground
• ❌ Put it in regular trash
• ❌ Dump it in a creek or pond

From home hazards to public buildings: how are larger spaces designed to protect people from fire?