Spill Proof Gas Cans:
Better for You and the Environment
What is a spill-proof gas can?
A fuel container that:
- Automatically shuts off when the target tank is full;
- Automatically closes and seals when removed from the tank;
- Remains closed and sealed when not dispensing fuel;
- Has only one opening for both filling and pouring; and
- Is made from a material that reduces the gas vapors that permeate the container.
Why is a spill-proof gas can better?
- Saves Fuel (and money!)-fuel can leak, spill and evaporate from conventional gas cans.
- Protects Your Family's Health--gasoline vapors contain a number of toxic compounds that can be harmful to your health.
- Child-Safe-spill-proof gas cans can protect children from accidental spills and ingestion.
- Better Indoor Air-spill-proof cans reduce the odors and vapors that conventional cans release into the air in your car, garage or shed.
- Better Outdoor Air-spill-proof gas cans reduce the amount of vapors released into the air, vapors that contribute to ground-level ozone ("smog").
- Protects Water-small gasoline spills can contaminate well water with toxic substances.
Where do I find a spill-proof gas can?
Check your local hardware or home-improvement store. If they don't carry spill-proof gas cans now, ask them to order them or order one off the internet. Make sure any spill-proof gas can you buy meets CARB (California Air Resources Board) requirements. This ensures the can releases the least amount of vapors.
The following is a partial list of companies that manufacture CARB-certified gas cans:
· Briggs & Stratton Corp. Smart Fill Fuel Can (2.5 gal.)
· Chilton Products. Models SRC10(1 gal. 6 oz.) and SRC20(2.5 gal)
· No-Spill Research, Inc. CARB Autostop www.no-spill.com
· Scribner Engineering. 5-Gal. Spill Proof Gas Container
Do I have to buy a spill-proof gas can?
The Department of Environmental Protection has proposed rules that would require retailers in the State of Maine to sell only gas cans that meet certain no-spill criteria. If approved by the Board of Environmental Protection, the regulation will go into effect in 2004. Retailers will then have one year to turn over their stock.
Under the Department's proposed rules, consumers have no obligation to replace old gas cans with newer, spill-proof models. You can use your old can for as long as it lasts.
What do I do with my old can?
If you choose to replace a leaky old can with a new spill-proof model, make sure that you use up all the gas in the old container and then air out the flammable vapors before you dispose of it as solid waste.
For more safe gas handling and storage tips, visit Gas Tips.
Read more about spill-proof gas cans in our In Our Backyard column.
