Quck answer
Storing gas cans inside a garage can be dangerous if not done properly. Here are some tips to safely store gas cans inside a garage:
1. Choose the right gas cans: Use approved gas cans that are specifically designed for storing gasoline. Make sure they are in good condition and have a tight seal.
2. Store in a well-ventilated area: Gasoline emits vapors that can be highly flammable. Keep the cans in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of fumes.
3. Keep away from ignition sources: Store gas cans away from any potential ignition sources like electrical outlets, water heaters, or open flames. This will reduce the risk of fire.
4. Use a secure and stable storage location: Place the gas cans on a stable surface to prevent tipping or spilling. Consider using a locking storage cabinet to keep them secure and out of reach of children.
5. Regularly inspect and maintain: Check the gas cans regularly for any signs of damage or leaking. Replace any damaged cans immediately.
By following these safety guidelines, you can store gas cans inside a garage without compromising the safety of your home and family.
It is important to be cautious when it comes to storing gasoline. If you own gas-powered lawn equipment or a generator, keeping gas cans in your garage can be convenient. However, there are certain criteria that need to be met and best practices that should be followed to ensure safe storage. Here is what you need to know about storing gas cans in your garage.
General Safety Guidelines for Gasoline Storage
Local fire and building codes will dictate the amount of gasoline you are allowed to store. Typically, individuals are permitted to have up to 25 gallons of gasoline on their property as long as it is stored in approved containers no larger than 5 gallons.
It is crucial that any gasoline stored at home is kept in a 5-gallon spill-proof gas can that is in excellent condition. Storing gas in old, leaky containers can result in gas fumes in the garage at best, and at worst, it can lead to a catastrophic fire if the gas is exposed to an ignition source. Storing fuel in approved cans also makes it easier to dispose of gasoline properly at a hazardous waste collection site, if necessary.
As a general rule, remember that light and heat are not friends of safe gasoline storage. Heat causes gas to expand inside the can, so gas cans should never be stored in direct sunlight or in areas where the temperature regularly exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Gasoline should be stored in well-ventilated structures that are not attached to homes or other buildings.
Storing Gasoline in Your Garage
Assuming your garage does not receive direct sunlight, is not connected to your home, and is not in an extremely hot climate, it may be safe to store gas in your garage. However, it is important to ensure that children and pets cannot access the garage unsupervised if you plan on storing gas there. Additionally, your garage should be free from potential ignition sources, such as hot water heaters or appliances with pilot lights. Gasoline should never be stored within 50 feet of anything that could ignite.
Avoid placing gas cans directly on your garage’s concrete floor. Instead, place a piece of plywood as a base or use sturdy shelves to store the gas cans. Also, be mindful not to position gasoline in front of any uncovered garage windows.
If your garage does not meet the necessary safety requirements for storing gasoline, an alternative option is to purchase a ventilated steel storage cabinet that is large enough to hold multiple 5-gallon cans. This type of cabinet can be placed outdoors.
What about gas water heaters?
Due to the possibility of spilled gas reaching a gas water heater and causing a fire, building codes usually require gas water heaters to be installed at least 18 inches above the floor. However, since 2003, gas heaters manufactured in the United States should be flammable vapor ignition resistant (FVIR), making them safer to have around flammable liquids. Depending on local codes, FVIR water heaters may be installed directly on the ground.
Using Gasoline Safely in Your Home
When it comes to storing gasoline at home, it is essential to understand how to handle it safely. Prior to adding gas to any equipment, such as a lawn mower, it is important to ensure that the engine and other parts of the machine are completely cooled down. Moreover, it is crucial to make sure that no one is smoking or using any ignition sources in the surrounding area. Once the cool engine is filled with gas, it is recommended to move the gas can at least 50 feet away before starting the machine. Additionally, it is important to check that the lid of the can is tightly sealed before returning it to storage.
It is always advisable to have a class B fire extinguisher readily available when storing or using gasoline at home. It is also a wise idea to have clay-based cat litter, sawdust, or some other absorbent material on hand in case of small gasoline spills.
