Safe Fuel Handling Practices

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Econoline. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Use care to prevent combustion from fuel spillage. No smoking, open flames or any kind of arcing. Fuel in fuel system remains under high pressure even when engine is not running. To avoid injury or fire, release fuel pressure from fuel system before disconnecting any fuel line. To release pressure from system perform FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE RELEASE procedure. To avoid unnecessary fuel spillage and fire hazard, any time fuel lines are disconnected, ignition switch must be in OFF position unless fuel pump operation is required for test purposes.

Fire

Report all fires to proper authorities.
Flames from methanol or methanol-gasoline blends can be invisible.
Know locations of portable fire extinguishers, fire blankets, fire alarms and eye/wash shower facilities and learn how to use them.
Use a "B" or "AFFF" (light water) type fire extinguisher to fight flammable liquid fires.

First Aid

If gasoline has been swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately!
If methanol or a methanol/gasoline blend has been swallowed, induce vomiting under the direction of a physician or Poison Control Center. Seek medical attention immediately!
When overcome by vapors, if safe, move victim to fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration or CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) as appropriate. Seek medical attention immediately!
If splashed in eyes, flush with large amounts of water for 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses, if worn. Seek medical attention.
If splashed on skin, remove contaminated clothing. Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water.

Health

All fuels can be harmful or fatal if swallowed.
Be aware, if fuel is swallowed, onset of serious health effects can be delayed 12 to 24 hours.
Fuels and products containing methanol (e.g. windshield washer fluid) can cause blindness if swallowed.
All fuel vapors can be harmful if inhaled.
All fuels can be harmful if absorbed through skin.
All fuels are irritating to eyes and respiratory system.
Some fuels made with gasoline contain benzene which is a cancer causing agent.

Handling

Use flammable liquid handling precautions.
Wear chemical goggles and nitrile gloves (additional protective clothing and equipment may be necessary in some instances).
Keep flammable liquids in approved, labeled, closed containers.
Use in well ventilated areas and control vapors. Be aware that vapors are not visible, are heavier than air, can travel along floor, and will settle in lower areas.
When transferring flammable liquids, bond receiving container to source and ground source to earth.
DO NOT smoke or use heat or spark producing equipment near vapors.
DO NOT eat, smoke or drink where these products are handled, processed or stored.
Never siphon by mouth.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling any fuel.

Spills

Notify proper authorities in the event of any spill you have not been trained to clean up.
Stop, contain, and clean up small spills with an absorbent material.