CAUTION...HIGHLY FLAMMABLE

Anyone can be seriously injured by carelessly using flammable liquids, such as gasoline. Most such accidents involve boys and men ages 9 to 35. Though some are due to curiosity, the Brunswick Fire Department says that most accidents are because children and adults lack knowledge of the explosive power of flammable liquids and vapors. One gallon of gasoline is equal to ten (10) sticks of dynamite. Caution and care is extremely important.

Typically accidents happen when gasoline is used to clean parts or start a fire; mowers are refueled while hot; lighter fluid is sprayed on an already burning barbecue; children play with matches and gasoline; paint thinner is stored in a jar and used in enclosed spaces; gasoline is kept in a jar rather than an approved metal container; and glue, hairspray and nail polish are used near heat or cigarettes. When flammable liquids do ignite, it is explosive, resulting in serious injuries. Survivors may have permanent scars. Remember to treat gasoline like dynamite:

• Don't store in basements or enclosed areas where pilot lights or other heat sources might ignite it.
• Don't smoke while refueling your car or any gas-powered appliance.
• Keep gasoline in a UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or FM (Factory Mutual) approved container with a tight-fitting lid.
• Store in a well ventilated area. Never bring gasoline into the house.
• Don't siphon gas by using your mouth. Use a hand operated pump.
• Keep your gas can tightly sealed and out of reach of children.
• Don't use gasoline to clean anything. It is a fuel, not a cleaner.
• Never refuel power equipment when engines are hot or running.
• If gasoline spills on clothes, wash them immediately. Vapors can hang in clothes, even though it appears to dry.
• Gasoline vapors are heavy and travel along the ground. If it finds a heat source, it can explode. Use in a well ventilated area.

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