A public safety campaign has been launched to increase awareness of the potential danger posed by the discharge of static electricity at gas stations.
To date over 150 refueling fires have been documented that appear to be caused by a discharge of static electricity.
The damage on this vehicle was caused by a refueling fire ignited by static electricity.
Most of the incidents involved the driver starting the gas pump and getting back into their car while the tank was being filled. When the driver got out of the car to remove the gas nozzle, a static buildup, believed to have been generated when the person slid across the car seat, caused a spark to occur when the person reached for the gas nozzle. The resulting fires have caused severe damages to individuals, vehicles and gas stations.
The Petroleum Equipment Institute recommends never re-entering your vehicle while refueling. In the event that you must get back in your car, make sure that upon exiting you touch a metal object, such as a car door, to discharge any static electricity buildup before touching the gas nozzle.
If a fire does start while your car is refueling, do not remove the nozzle from the vehicle. Back away from the car, and notify a gas station attendant immediately so the station's emergency shut-off controls can be engaged.
Tips to Stay Safe at the Gas Pump
Petroleum Equipment Institute September 23, 2002