Whether it’s a can for the mower or a backup container for your car, at some point or another, we’ve all had one of those iconic red containers with some spare gas. However, that useful substance is also a hazardous product, and without properly storing gasoline at home – as well as handling and disposal – you’ll encounter risks to your home, health, and the environment. Learn what you need to know to deal with this hazardous household product.
Hazards
- Gasoline is highly flammable and can be explosive. It must be properly stored to avoid house fires.
- Gasoline contains benzene, a known carcinogen. Benzene and other toxic compounds found in gasoline vaporize readily and can be inhaled.
- Gasoline can become contaminated, such as moved to an unclean container or left open near other products.
- Gasoline has a shelf life of about six months for pure gas and three months for ethanol-blended gas (most US gas stations use “E10” gas that contains about 10% ethanol). After this time, this gas should not be used and must be properly disposed of. Learn more in our blog, Storing Gasoline at Home and When to Dispose of It.
Handling
- Store gasoline in a labeled container that is approved for gasoline storage.
- Do not fill up the container to the top; leave some air space to allow for expansion.
- Store gasoline in a cool, dry place, away from any motor-driven machine that could cause sparks, including washers and dryers. Keep out of direct sunlight.
- Store at ground level, not on a shelf, to minimize the danger of falling and spilling. Avoid storing near other flammables like propane, butane, or other household fuels.
- Never open or use near open flames or sources of ignition, such as sparks or cigarettes.
- Always open gasoline containers and use gasoline in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, away from children and animals.
- Do not store gasoline in a car trunk. There is a threat of explosion from heat and impact.
- Do not dispose of it down the drain, into surface water, or in the trash. This includes containers that have contained gasoline.
- Do not mix with any other material, including antifreeze and used oil.
Management Options
- Dispose of at a Household Hazardous Products Collection Center or hold for a household hazardous waste collection event.
This information was brought to you by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and NEDT. For more information, including links to their guides, visit our Fact Sheets & Links page, and make sure to check out our NEDT Blog and Household Hazardous Products Resources for more in-depth information.
