Statewide Static Electricity Safety - Avoid Static Electricity When Dispensing Gasoline - Community Advisory

Although rare, fires occurring when dispensing gasoline into vehicles and approved containers can result in a sudden flash fire directly resulting from a static electricity spark. A spark caused by static electricity can quickly ignite gasoline vapors in or around the fuel fill site.

When dry (low humidity) conditions exist, the potential for static electricity rises. Static electricity develops while entering and exiting your vehicle. It is advised to touch a metal area away from the fill location on the vehicle to discharge any static built up from contact with the seat before touching the nozzle. Although it is a best practice to avoid re-entering your vehicle after beginning the refueling process, if you find it necessary to enter the vehicle again, touch the exterior metal area of the vehicle before handling the nozzle. "Serious injury or death can quickly change the outcome of a seemingly simple task when dispensing gasoline," stated State Fire Marshal William E. Barnard. "Please educate yourself and share the following safety tips with others when filling vehicles and containers."

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Please follow the safety instructions provided on decals located on the gas pump housing.

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Always turn-off vehicle engine when refueling.

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Stay near the nozzle during the refueling process.

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Refrain from re-entering your vehicle. If you must re-enter the vehicle, discharge any static charge by touching a metal area like the car door before touching the nozzle.

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When filling approved containers, always place the container on the ground, never fill containers on a vehicle or trailer.

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Keep the nozzle in direct contact with the approved container while filling.

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If a fire occurs, do not remove the nozzle. Leave the area immediately and call for assistance.

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The Office of the State Fire Marshal is an agency of the Department of State Police dedicated to helping protect citizens from fire and explosion through a comprehensive program of education, inspection, investigation and fire protection engineering. For more information on fire safety call 1-800-525-3124, log onto their website at: www.mdsp.org/firemarshal and/or http://facebook.com/MarylandStateFireMarshal.