What are the precautions when storing in plastic gas cans? Have 5 gal kerosene cans and 2 1/2 gal gas cans stored in "regulation" plastic storage containers in unfinished garage. They are near the front door, 'miles' away from the gas water heater. We also have an electric dryer, but it is as far away as the water heater. Am I safe, or should I re-arrange my storage??? Thanx for your expertise, MM

-- Midnightmom (myhouse@bigfoot.com), November 24, 1999.

-- Midnightmom (myhouse@bigfoot.com), November 24, 1999

Answers

mom,

What I'm reading terrifies me. Gas explosions come from the ignition of gas fumes. Those fumes can be set off easily.......even by a water heater that is 'miles' away.

You might want to consider storing the cans outside. If you think they are going to "walk away," or if you just want to keep them unnoticed, then build a ventilated plywood box that can be padlocked.

Another possibility is to put them in these Rubbermaid outdoor storage 'sheds.' Everyone will assume you're simply putting your trash cans or garden tools in the sheds. Keep them locked.

-- don't (go@kaboom.pls), November 25, 1999.

*IF* the cans are tighly sealed and in good/new condition, you'll be fine. No use getting all freaked out over nothing. A little common sense goes a LONG way. Be safe, but not afraid.

-- Dennis (djolson@pressenter.com), November 25, 1999.

I'd say if its safe to park your car or lawnmower there, its safe for gas cans. When's the last time you heard of a car spontaneously exploding in someone's garage? I wouldn't pour gas from one container to another inside the garge though.

-- biker (y2kbiker@hotmail.com), November 25, 1999.

I bought the Rubbermaid storage shed for gasoline and kerosene storage several months ago.I have it at the end of my clothes line,at the back of the yard.It has a place on the doors to put a lock.

-- Maggie (aaa@aaa.com), November 25, 1999.

Good idea to equalize the pressure by loosening the cap for a second or two evey time the average temperature drops or rises 15-20 degrees or so ... Leave the door open, before and after, to vent any fumes or preferably take the cans outside to do it.

-- John (jh@NotReal.ca), November 26, 1999.

Whatever can you use, make sure it has a VERY good seal. Plastic cans sometimes have seams running through the spout. Take the cap off before you buy, and run your finger around the lip.

After filling with gas, set it somewhere where you'll see if it leaks, and check for odors. Store it in a place where fumes can drain away (gas fumes flow downhill) like a garage or outbuilding. Don't put it near fire, flame, in a closet, etc. For extra fume-control, put it inside a garbage bag and close the bag with a clip.

Check with local fire department. Some have tight restrictions, some not. If you are in violation of local laws and have any kind of fire, damage or any insurance claim, your violation might void your insurance even if the gasoline had nothing to do with the damage. Be careful with your preps.

-- bw (home@puget.sound), November 26, 1999.