Gas cans are extremely useful for storing extra fuel for cars, boats, generators, lawn equipment, and more. However, gas vapor is highly flammable and gas cans must be stored properly to avoid fires or explosions. Choosing the right location to store gas cans is crucial for safety. This article will examine the key factors to consider when deciding where to store gas cans and provide recommendations for safe gas can storage.
Quick Answers
– Store gas cans in a well-ventilated, detached outdoor shed or garage, away from your house.
– Keep gas cans off concrete floors to avoid vapor buildup. Use a metal shelf or rack.
– Never store gas cans in an attached garage, basement, or near ignition sources.
– Maintain at least 50 feet between gas cans and gas appliances like water heaters or furnaces.
– Keep gas cans out of direct sunlight and extreme heat which can cause the gas to expand.
– Ensure gas cans are clearly labeled and store away from children and pets.
Detached Building vs Attached Garage
The most important consideration when storing gas cans is avoiding attached structures. An attached garage or storage area puts your entire home at risk if a fire occurs. The vapors from gas could easily travel inside the walls or along the ceiling into the living spaces.
Instead, always store gas cans in a detached garage, shed, or other outbuilding that is located away from your home. This isolates any fire risk and prevents explosions or fumes from impacting your house. Many local fire codes prohibit storing gas cans in attached garages for this reason.
Some key tips if storing gas cans in a detached garage or shed:
– Ensure it is well ventilated with high ceilings and vents. This allows gas vapors to dissipate.
– Do not store near ignition sources like hot water heaters, furnaces, or appliances that could spark and ignite the vapors. Maintain at least 50 feet of separation.
– Keep gas cans off concrete floors. Vapors can settle on concrete and reach ignition sources. Store cans on an elevated metal shelf or rack.
– Have proper fire extinguishers and smoke alarms in the building.
– Do not store any other flammable chemicals or combustible materials in the same area.
In general, a detached garage or outdoor shed is the safest option for storing multiple gas cans or large quantities of fuel. Just make sure it meets fire code requirements in your local area.
Avoid These Locations
There are several dangerous places you should never store gas cans:
– Attached garage – High risk of fumes entering the home.
– Basement – Gases can build up in low areas.
– Near appliances – Water heaters, furnaces, and other ignition sources.
– Living spaces – Vapors can travel through air vents.
– Direct sunlight – Heat can cause gas expansion and leakage.
– Workshops – Avoid any area with tools or hot equipment that may spark.
Outdoor Storage Options
Storing gas cans outdoors helps dissipate any vapors quickly for added safety. Some good outdoor options include:
Weather-Resistant Storage Box
Outdoor storage boxes are available that are designed for gas cans and made of galvanized steel or other non-combustible materials. Look for ones with vents to allow air circulation. Make sure to padlock it shut to secure the gas. Place it in a shaded area away from direct sunlight and house walls.
Under an Overhang
Storing gas cans under a non-attached overhang, carport canopy, or eave area keeps them out of rain and sun while allowing ventilation. Again, maintain significant distance from any ignition sources – at least 20 feet is recommended.
Shed
A waterproof outdoor shed makes a good storage spot if it can be secured and locked. Install vents near the top and bottom for airflow. Be sure to elevate cans off concrete floors too.
Truck Bed
For very short term storage such as camping trips, storing cans in a pickup truck bed works. Just be sure to remove them once home and do not keep them there permanently. The bed walls help contain fumes.
Outdoor storage is convenient but comes with some weather exposure. Be sure to take precautions against spills, pests, sun damage, and rainwater filling the cans.
Garage Workbenches and Cabinets
Many homeowners store gas cans on shelves in their garage workshops. While this may seem convenient, it is unsafe and should be avoided. Workbenches often contain ignition sources like power tools or electrical equipment.
Storage cabinets in attached garages are also not recommended, as leaking vapors can accumulate inside. Even welding equipment and hot power tools on the other side of the garage pose a real hazard.
The safest approach is to keep any gas cans completely segregated in a detached building at least 50 feet from work areas. Have a separate storage shed or outbuilding just for the flammable liquids.
If you must keep gas near tools:
– Store in sealed containers labeled “flammable liquids”.
– Elevate on a high shelf – gases sink and collect near the floor.
– Have proper ventilation, fire alarms, and fire extinguishers.
– Limit quantities to the essential minimum.
But the best practice is to avoid storing any amount of gasoline near ignition sources or in attached structures.
Maximum Quantity
Many residential codes limit the amount of gasoline you can store at home:
– International Fire Code – Maximum 60 gallons
– National Fire Protection Association – Maximum 25 gallons
– Local city or county limits – Varies, sometimes 10-30 gallons
It’s smart to call your local fire department to ask about specific quantity limits in your area. This applies to total gas storage, including what’s in your car.
Restricting volume reduces fire risks, prevents hoarding, and ensures gas is managed safely. It also discourages theft.
Consider keeping just what you need for a few weeks – 10-15 gallons is often plenty for homeowners. You can always replenish fresh fuel as needed. Rotate to use older gas first before it becomes stale.
Here are some tips to avoid exceeding your local quantity limits:
– Know the codes for your municipality and comply.
– Only buy what you expect to use within 6 months.
– Fill equipment directly from the pump instead of filling cans.
– Return unused gas to the filling station for recycling.
– Give excess gas to friends and neighbors who need it.
Following any mandated quantity rules demonstrates your commitment to safe storage. It also protects your property and avoids issues with insurance policies or local authorities if a fire did occur.
Gas Can Racks
Specialized metal racks provide handy storage for multiple gas cans while elevating them off the floor for safety. These racks:
– Prevent vapor buildup near concrete.
– Allow ventilation and air circulation.
– Keep cans upright and easy to dispense from.
– Get cans off the ground and safe from pests.
– Make it simple to transport multiple cans.
– Free up shelf space.
– Some have convenient hose hooks and dispensers.
When shopping, look for sturdy all-metal racks with ventilation slots or mesh walls. Powder coated steel offers durability. Ensure the rack safely secures cans from tipping over.
For safety, position racks away from any heat sources and towards the center of the space. This allows air circulation. Anchor racks to the wall for added stability if needed.
Racks are ideal for managing a few 5-gallon gas cans in a garage or shed. They allow organized, visible storage that meets fire codes. Just avoid placing racks directly on concrete floors where vapors can accumulate.
Gas Can Rack Safety Tips
Follow these tips when using gas can racks:
– Elevate racks on bricks or blocks to prevent vapor buildup on concrete floors.
– Position near vents or high windows for good ventilation.
– Secure cans upright with clamps or ties so they cannot fall over.
– Label each can clearly with the contents.
– Funnel any spills into proper disposal containers.
– Keep other flammable chemicals away from rack area.
– Never exceed load capacity – check manufacturers maximums.
– Use non-sparking tools when handling cans to avoid sparks.
– Place fire extinguishers and smoke alarms nearby.
– Inspect cans regularly for leaks or damage.
Gas Can Storage Checklist
Follow this checklist to keep gas cans safely stored:
– Detached building – No attached garages or indoor storage.
– Good ventilation – High roof and vents.
– No concrete contact – Use racks or blocking to elevate.
– Fire separation – At least 50 feet from heat sources.
– Locked access – Secure fuel from children or theft.
– Leak-proof cans – Seal valves and check for drips.
– Gas stabilizer added – Prevent stale fuel.
– Accessible fire extinguisher – Class B for flammables.
– Posted warnings – Caution others of hazards.
– Local codes followed – Limit quantities stored.
– Rotated stock – Use older gas first.
– Separate from other chemicals – Isolate flammables.
– Fire alarm system – Detect leaks or vapors.
– Spill containment – Use fill station with catch basin.
– Emergency number posted – Fire department contacts.
Alternative Fuels
For added safety, consider alternatives to storing gasoline on your property, such as:
Natural Gas Generator
Natural gas generators avoid flammable fuel storage and offer automatic operation. Just ensure they are located outdoors with proper exhaust ventilation away from windows.
Propane Generator
Like natural gas, propane generators do not need combustible gasoline fuel onsite. Maintain safe distances from home.
Solar Generator
Solar generators use battery banks and solar panels instead of fuel. These are very safe for indoor use with no vapors or emissions.
Fill Equipment at Gas Station
Filling mowers, ATVs, and other small engines directly at the pump avoids transporting and storing extra gas cans at home.
Electric Equipment
Cordless electric lawn tools and other battery-powered options remove the need for keeping any spare gasoline.
Evaluating alternatives can allow you to store little or no extra fuel at home. New technologies like solar generators provide clean, silent power without fire risks.
Conclusion
Storing gasoline always presents hazards that require careful precautions. Follow these best practices to maximize safety:
– Detached building away from home
– Proper ventilation and elevation
– Avoid concrete contact
– Fire separation from heat sources
– Limit quantities stored
– Use gas can racks safely
– Rotate stock
– Consider safer alternative fuels
Applying fundamental safeguards allows you to store the gasoline you need while protecting against leaks, vapors, and potential blazes. Always check local codes and fire department guidance for your specific area. With smart storage methods, you can safely keep spare fuel accessible for all your gas-powered equipment.