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If you must have gasoline around the house:
- Always store it in approved safety containers - these can be expensive, but it is cheap "fire insurance"
- Always have a fire extinguisher marked for "B" type fires (Gasoline and other flammable liquids) - Be sure you know how to use it!
- Always keep the minimum amount of gas required
- Always store the container in a cool and well ventilated area. Keep it away from any source of heat or sparks such as water heater, electric motor or car engines
- Always store the containers in the garage or shed rather than the house
- Never carry gasoline in the trunk of your car
- Always keep gasoline away from children
- Never syphon gasoline by sucking the hose; gasoline can be fatal to adults too, if swallowed
- Never use gasoline as a cleaner, a charcoal starter or a solvent
If you or your child should ever swallow gasoline, then
- Move the child away from the gasoline source; then secure the gasoline safely
- Call your doctor or Poison Centre immediately, or call 911
- Never induce vomiting; the same is true kerosene, lighter fluid and fuel oil
- For gasoline on clothing - remove the clothing and dispose of carefully
- For gasoline of skin - use lots of warm soapy water to reduce the risk of chemical burns
If you do have a gasoline fire and don't have a "B" type fire extinguisher
- Get everyone away from the fire
- Call the Fire department by dialling 911
- Stay calm
- Never use water to put out a gasoline fire
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