Safety and storage

A close-up of two red gasoline containers.

Helping keep you and your family safe around fuel

How to handle fuel safely

Mobil™ branded stations adhere to strict safety practices to help keep customers safe at all times. However, it’s important to remember gasoline and diesel fuels are highly flammable. Always exercise caution at the pump or when handling fuel. Always turn off the engine and avoid overfilling. Never smoke near fuel.

Additional precautions when handling fuel

If you get gasoline on your skin, immediately wash with soapy water to avoid potential skin irritation. Do not light a match (or any ignition source) or smoke until all gasoline has been removed.
If gasoline gets on your vehicle, wipe it off with a rag or paper towel. Do not light a match (or any ignition source) or smoke until all gasoline has been removed.
Gasoline is only intended to be used as motor fuel. Do not use it for any other purposes. Never use gasoline in kerosene heaters or lamps or mix gasoline with kerosene.

Safety precautions at the station

As a safety precaution, we recommend paying close attention to your surroundings — gas stations are busy places with many vehicles and people moving around.
Always turn off your vehicle before using your phone at the station. Additionally, refrain from using your phone when walking across the station.

Guidelines for safe storage

Gasoline should only be stored when absolutely necessary. Be sure to store it in an appropriate container, as improper storage can pose risks.

Gasoline must be stored in an approved fuel tank or can — usually five gallons or less. Leave room in the container to allow for expansion. If transporting the container, place it in your trunk.
Tightly seal gasoline containers and handle them gently to avoid spillage. Check for leaks regularly and clean up any spills promptly.
Always store gasoline at room temperature and away from potential heat sources (e.g., sun, hot water heaters, space heaters, furnaces).
Store gasoline at least 50 feet away from ignition sources, such as pilot lights, in a detached garage or shed. Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and can travel along the floor to ignition sources.
Consider referring to your local authorities. They may have additional regulations regarding fuel storage.

Safety and storage FAQs

Is it safe to use my cell phone at the gas station?

According to the Federal Communications Commission, there is no documented incident where the use of a cell phone was found to cause a fire at a fuel station. But please remember to use your phone responsibly. Never use your phone when driving and make sure your car is parked safely and shut off before using your phone.

How do I get the smell of gasoline off my hands?

Try mixing vanilla extract with water and rubbing it on your hands until the mixture reduces or removes the smell. You can also use rubbing alcohol or lemon juice. Once the gasoline smell is gone, wash your hands with soap and water.

What do I do if I get gasoline in my eye?

Immediately flush your eye with clean, lukewarm water. Do not rub your eye or put anything in it (such as eye drops). Seek medical assistance as quickly as possible.^††

Does gasoline have an expiration date? How long can it be stored?

In general, gasoline should be used within a month of purchase. When the engine will not be used for an extended period of time, it’s best to drain the fuel tank and then run the engine until it stalls. If you choose to store gasoline and follow proper storage guidelines, the gasoline can generally be expected to remain of good quality for between 6 to 12 months depending on the fuel type.

How do I dispose of gasoline?

Check with your local government or hazardous waste disposal center to determine the proper avenues for disposing of gasoline. If you are cleaning up spilled gasoline, place recovered gasoline and cleanup materials in approved, labeled containers for proper disposal. Spilled gasoline or cleaning materials should never be left on the ground or put in your garbage, drains, toilets or sewers. Improper disposal could cause a fire or cause gasoline to seep into streams, bays, lakes or groundwater.

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