Business lines Global brands EN FR Select location Search this website Menu Esso Home Safety and storage Safety & storage Keeping you and your family safe around fuel. How to handle fuel safely Esso™ and Mobil™ service stations adhere to strict safety practices to help keep customers safe at all times. But please remember, gasoline and diesel fuels are flammable, and therefore they can be dangerous, so always use caution. Never smoke anywhere near where fuel is handled, especially at the pump. Additional cautions when handling gasoline If you get gasoline on your skin, wash with soapy water right away to avoid potential skin irritations. Do not smoke or light a match until you are sure all gasoline has been removed If you get gasoline on your vehicle, wipe it with a rag or paper towel. Do not smoke or light a match until you are sure all gasoline has been removed Gasoline should only be used for its intended purpose – as a motor fuel. Never use gasoline in kerosene heaters or lamps Do not mix gasoline with kerosene or diesel. Also, do not use gasoline in kerosene heaters or lamps Safety precautions at the station As you know, gas stations are busy places with lots of vehicles and people moving around. We recommend that your children remain in the vehicle. As well, we recommend you refrain from using your cell phone when walking across the station. How to store gasoline safely Gasoline can be dangerous if not stored properly. It should only be stored when absolutely necessary in an appropriate container. Guidelines for safe storage Gasoline must be stored in an approved fuel can or tank – usually 20 litres or less. Be sure to leave some room in the container to allow for some expansion Keep gasoline containers tightly sealed and handle them gently to avoid spills Store gasoline at room temperature, away from potential heat sources such as the sun, a hot water heater, a space heater or a furnace Store gasoline in a detached shed or garage – at least 50 feet away from ignition sources, such as pilot lights. Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and can travel along the floor to ignition sources Be sure to check with your local authorities for any additional regulations regarding fuel storage FAQs about safety & storage Is it safe to use my cell phone at the gas station? How do I get the smell of gasoline off my hands? What do I do if I get gasoline in my eye? Does gasoline have an expiration date and how long can it be stored? How do I dispose of gasoline? Get more out of every trip Explore our comprehensive list of tips to help you improve fuel efficiency and get more out of every trip. Learn more Improve efficiency with car care From the right tire pressure to the right motor oil, see how proper car maintenance can help improve fuel efficiency. Learn more Drive your way to better fuel economy See how simple things like accelerating more smoothly can impact your fuel efficiency. Learn more Save on gas by making smart choices From carpooling to choosing a more fuel-efficient vehicle, there are a number of choices you can make to save on gas. Learn more Esso is a trademark of Imperial Oil Limited. Imperial Oil, licensee. Mobil is a trademark of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. Imperial Oil, licensee. Energy lives here™ Contact us Select location Privacy center Terms and conditions Privacy policy © Copyright 2003-2021 Exxon Mobil Corporation. All rights reserved. By clicking “Accept all cookies”, you agree to the storing of optional cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. If you wish to adjust your cookie settings, please click “Customize Cookies”. You can also learn more by clicking Privacy policy Accept all cookies Customize cookies