Convenient and essential for transportation, visits to gas stations have become an indispensable part of everyday life. However, even if you’ve been to many of them, there may be certain rules of safety and etiquette of which you may be unaware. To make sure that each of your future fueling stops goes smoothly, it’s important to know about them.

Do:

Stay alert.

You may be tempted to scroll through your cellphone while waiting for the tank to fill up, but the distraction could cause you to overfill your tank. If this happens, it will spill gas into your carbon filter, which damages the engine.

Many modern pumps will automatically stop when your tank is full, but you still shouldn’t risk spilling any fuel. It’s also impolite to keep other drivers waiting.

Pour and carry gas correctly.

OSHA-approved gas containers will have a DOT or UL label on them. This designates that they’re built for safely handling gas or other hazardous liquids because they’re made from high-density polyethylene. 

When you’re not using it, keep the lid on tight and remove the container from direct exposure to sunlight; the heat could cause the liquid to produce vapors or even explode. Take it out of your car when you’re done.

Don’t:

Leave the car running.

When pumping gas, turn off the engine, cigarette lighters, and phone chargers in your car. Any of these items could potentially short-circuit, producing sparks that would react with the gas and cause a fire.

There’s also a chance that static electricity will be present on the pump, especially on cold, dry days, when there’s little humidity to dampen the air. Static electricity may ignite sparks if you get into the car and touch metal while pumping and cause a fire, so avoid getting back in until you’re done.

Smoke.

Considering the gas, electricity, and other potential fire hazards at gas stations, smoking while pumping is never a good idea. Put off lighting your cigarette until you’re finished. After that, you can smoke while driving or in a safe area several feet away from the pumps.

Whenever you need fuel from a reliable gas station, go to Tri-Mart BP in Oneida, WI. Having been a well-known part of their community since 1992, they offer emergency gas services 24/7 and prioritize top-notch customer service above all else. They also accept all major debit and credit cards in addition to cash, and there’s an ATM for anyone who needs one. To learn more about their products and services, call them today at (715) 564-2440 or check out their website.