FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS

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MAIN (Return to Top)

One of the major causes of household fires is flammable liquids. These include gasoline, acetone, benzene, lacquer thinner, alcohol, contact cement, turpentine, paint thinner, kerosene, and charcoal lighter fluid. The most dangerous of all is gasoline.

1. Are gasoline, paints, solvents, or other products that give off vapors or fumes stored away from ignition sources?
   Gasoline, kerosene, and other flammable liquids should be stored in properly labeled, non-glass safety containers. Remove these products from the area near heat or flame such as heaters, furnaces, water heaters, stoves and other gas appliances. Flammable liquids produce invisible explosive vapors that can be ignited by a small spark at considerable distances from the flammable substance.

2. Are containers of flammable liquids tightly capped?
   If not tightly closed, vapors may escape that may be flammable or toxic when inhaled. Check containers periodically to make sure they are tightly closed.

GASOLINE (Return to Top)

The inappropriate use of gasoline is becoming the number one cause of burn injuries and death for adults. Most people don't realize how easily flammable liquids can burn. The heavier than air vapors can flow invisibly along the ground and be ignited by a flame or spark from a considerable distance. Gasoline and it's products are often used unsafely for a variety of purposes such as: cleaning of parts and brushes, grease removal, starting grill and trash fires. A potential hazard also exists with the use of gasoline around power equipment, such as: lawn mowers, power saws, mini-bikes and snowmobiles. Particularly dangerous is the use of gasoline to prime automobile carburetors. A spark, cigarette or match can ignite the flammable vapor and cause a major fire and burn injury. There is only one acceptable use for gasoline - fueling an engine.

If you must have gasoline around the house:

• Always store it in approved safety containers - these can be expensive, but it is cheap "fire insurance".
• Always have a fire extinguisher near by when using gasoline and be sure you know how to use it.
• Only keep the minimum amount of gasoline required for the task.
• Always store the containers in a cool and well ventilated area. Keep it away from any source of heat or sparks such as water heaters, electric motors or car engines.
• Always store the containers in the garage or shed rather than the house.
• Never carry gasoline in the trunk of your car.
• Always keep gasoline away from children.
• Never use gasoline as a cleaner, a charcoal starter or a solvent.
• Never smoke around gasoline.

The safety information enclosed was compiled from the best sources available to us. The Illinois Fire Safety Alliance and authors cannot assume any liability for its effectiveness in every emergency situation.