Recently, a woman issued a warning about the risk of static electricity-induced fires while fueling vehicles during cold weather, after experiencing a shock at the gas pump nozzle.
Alexandra Hope Craig shared her story on social media, recounting the moment she felt a static shock upon gripping the gas pump nozzle, mere seconds after exiting her vehicle. While the incident caused no harm, it highlighted a potential hazard in a routine activity.
Craig explained that cold, dry winter conditions can lead to static electricity buildup on the body and metal surfaces. In the presence of gasoline vapors, even a tiny spark can ignite a fire or explosion. The most critical moments are when inserting or removing the nozzle from the fuel tank, as vapors are more likely to disperse.
Drawing from her experience, Craig advises drivers to discharge static electricity before handling the pump by touching a bare metal surface, such as the car’s frame. This simple action significantly reduces the risk of sparks during refueling.
Craig’s video quickly gained traction, amassing over 300,000 views in a short period. Many social media users expressed agreement, adding their own safety tips for refueling.
Some comments reflected concerns about the abundance of safety warnings in daily life. However, experts emphasize that while rare, fires at gas stations can occur, with static electricity being a primary cause.
To minimize risks, experts recommend staying outside the vehicle during refueling. If re-entering the car is necessary, touch the metal door frame before resuming contact with the pump. Additionally, ensure the engine is off, avoid actions that generate static, and never smoke or use open flames near the pump.
In the event of a fire, do not remove the nozzle from the fuel tank. Instead, move everyone away from the danger zone and activate the emergency shut-off if available.
TH (Tuoitrethudo)
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