In a world where things feel go-go-go, there’s one reason we all have to slow down: to get more fuel. For many, a stop at the gas station pump is just that – another stop. But for some, especially when stopping late at night or in unfamiliar locations while on a road trip, making a pit stop to refuel can feel daunting.
When you are concerned for your personal safety, worried about fire hazards, or have concerns about how the equipment works, the seemingly simple task of gassing up your car can quickly turn stressful.
Fortunately, by following a few gas station safety best practices, you can increase your confidence at the pump when you’re fueling up. And, if you own a gas station or C-store, we’ll provide some actionable tips to ensure your customers feel safe when they stop by.
General Safety at the Gas Pump
Safety at the gas pump starts with paying attention to your surroundings and taking simple – but crucial – precautions.
Turn Off Your Engine & Take Your Key With You
Step one: power down your vehicle and remove your key from the ignition. It’s a common rule, but why should you turn off your car when getting gas?
Gasoline vapors are highly flammable, and even a small spark from your running engine could ignite them. By turning off your vehicle, you minimize the risk of fire. Additionally, some car components like the alternator or exhaust system can produce heat that might become a hazard when exposed to gasoline vapors.
You’ll want to bring your key with you for a couple of reasons: 1) you can feel confident you’ve powered down your engine, and 2) you can rest assured knowing that you have your keys with you and your car cannot be driven without them.
Avoid Static Electricity
Static electricity and gas pumps can be a dangerous combination. When you slide across your car seat or touch certain surfaces, static build-up can occur. If you touch the pump handle immediately after without discharging the static, a spark could potentially ignite gasoline vapors causing a “flash fire.”
Luckily, avoiding static electricity at the pump is simple. After exiting your vehicle, make a habit of touching something metal, such as the car door, before reaching for the pump. This simple step will help discharge any static that could otherwise cause a spark.
Also, avoid re-entering your vehicle during refueling, especially in cooler or dry weather conditions when static electricity is more likely to build. If you need to return to your car, always touch metal before grabbing the gas nozzle again.
Stay Alert and Follow the Rules
While fueling, stay vigilant. Pay attention to any warning signs posted at the gas station. Avoid distractions, like your phone, and be mindful of others around you. This includes ensuring you and your passengers follow safety rules, such as not lighting matches or smoking near the pumps.
Always lock your doors if you’re refueling at night or in an area that makes you feel uncomfortable, and ensure you have your car keys on your person. Even if you’re focused on pumping gas, it’s essential to prioritize personal safety by reducing the risk of theft or other potential dangers.
Choose a Well-Lit Gas Station in a High-Traffic Area
When selecting a gas station, especially if you’re refueling at night, choosing a well-lit gas station in a high-traffic area is a key safety precaution. Well-lit stations provide better visibility for you and those around you, allowing you to spot any potential hazards or suspicious activity more easily. Adequate lighting also helps deter criminal behavior, making it less likely that someone will attempt theft or other dangerous actions while you’re refueling.
Beyond lighting, gas stations in high-traffic areas—such as those near busy streets or popular establishments — tend to be safer because there’s a steady flow of people coming and going. This visibility increases safety as criminals are less likely to target a busy, well-watched location. If possible, try to refuel during peak hours or at gas stations that have constant foot traffic to enhance your safety.
Combining the right location with proper lighting will help ensure a safer experience, giving you peace of mind, especially when stopping late at night.
Must-Know Tips for Handling Gasoline Safely
Avoid Overfilling the Tank
Overfilling your gas tank can lead to gasoline spills, which are not only hazardous to the environment but also increase the risk of fire.
Don’t be tempted to “top off.” Stop filling the tank when the pump triggers the automatic shut-off. Gasoline vapors are highly flammable, and even a small amount of spilled gasoline can cause significant danger.
Portable Containers
If you’re filling a portable gas container, always place it on the ground to fill it – never in the bed of a pickup truck or inside the car. The friction between the container and these surfaces can create static electricity, so it’s safer to ensure the container is grounded before filling it up.
How Gas Station Owners Can Create a Safe Environment
Safety isn’t just the responsibility of the driver. Gas station owners play a significant role in creating an environment where visitors can feel secure. Here are a few ways to enhance safety:
Installing Bright Lighting and Security Cameras
Good visibility is one of the most effective deterrents for criminal activity – in addition to ensuring that folks can see clearly and move about safely. Installing bright, energy-efficient lighting at pumps and around the parking area can help customers feel safer, particularly at night.
Security cameras provide an added layer of protection, allowing station owners to monitor the property for suspicious activity and giving customers peace of mind.
Investing in Well-Maintained Pumps and Fuel Supply
Nothing is more frustrating – or potentially dangerous – than pulling up to a gas station only to find out-of-order pumps. Not only does this inconvenience customers, but it can also lead to long wait times, crowded areas, and confusion at the station.
Safety at the Pump Starts with Quality Fuel
At Venture Fuels, we understand the importance of keeping gas stations safe and operational. Whether it’s ensuring you have a reliable fuel supply or providing guidance on maintaining your equipment, we’re here to support you.
Need wholesale fuel? Partner with Venture Fuels today to keep your pumps ready for customers, reduce the risk of hazards, and ensure everyone has a safe and smooth refueling experience. Get in touch now.