Fuel stockpiled for emergencies can cause an emergency of its own if not stored and used properly. As temperatures drop, many people store extra fuel for heating, grills and to run machinery such as generators. While some preparation is wise, it can be dangerous if proper safety measures are not followed. Herb Willcutt, farm safety specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, said stored fuels present safety challenges if not handled correctly. Don't put gasoline in containers that can break, split or spill.
Store fuels away from the house in a safe storage area with no potential fire ignition sources.
These sources include gas water heaters, fuse boxes or electrical outlets that could arc in a thunderstorm. They could try to start fires with the fuels or drink them. Don't overfill containers or they will not have room to expand and contract. Plastic containers approved for gasoline can flex as the fuel expands or contracts, but rigid containers should have a safety vent to release pressure caused by daytime temperature changes. Willcutt said to remove tanks from truck beds when filling them.