Do you have old gasoline around your garage or shed? Before you throw it away, keep in mind the dangers in home. And disposing of gasoline the wrong way can not only damage the environment and cause safety issues, but it could also get you sued or into trouble with the law. Old gasoline needs to be dealt with properly, and you should dispose of it in a way that’s safe.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This guide will outline the dangers of improper gasoline disposal, delve into safe disposal options, and provides a step-by-step guide on how to safely dispose of old fuel. And we’ll offer advice on keeping gasoline from going bad in the future.
Knowing the Dangers of Incorrect Gasoline Disposal
Gasoline is a highly combustible and hazardous material and can be dangerous if not used in accordance with its designed purpose. This is why improper disposal is hazardous:
Environmental Damage
Gasoline includes toxic substances like benzene, toluene, xylene and others, which can leach into soil and water. One gallon of gas can pollute up to 750,000 gallons of water.
Health Hazards
Gasoline fumes can induce dizziness, headaches, and even respiratory irritation. Time spent with old gas may cause skin or eye irritation.
Fire Risks
Gasoline is highly flammable. Using an incorrect method for disposing of it, like throwing it in the garbage or down the drain, also greatly raises the chances of fires or explosions.
Legal Consequences
Improper disposal of gasoline is illegal in most places and is a violation of hazardous waste laws, fines, and loss of codes can result.
And that’s just what they are. Knowing these hazards is the initial step when you want to dispose of gasoline safely and responsibly.
How to Dispose of Old Gasoline
Fortunately, there are several safe and green options for disposing of old fuel:
Touch Base with Your Local Waste Management Team
Lots of local waste-management or sanitation departments have setups for dealing with hazardous materials, such as gasoline. These services can be provided for nothing or a small fee. Call their hotline or visit their website to get guidelines, and to find out where to drop it: (336)679-3232.
Take It to a Hazardous Waste Collection Site
The vast majority of cities and counties hold hazardous waste collection events or maintain permanent drop-off centers where residents can dispose of gasoline, as well as other dangerous chemicals including paint and motor oil.
Search for a hazardous waste collection site near you on Earth911, among other online resources.
Recycle or Reuse Gasoline
Assuming the gasoline isn’t too old (really smells like gas; hasn’t separated into layers), it’s quite likely still usable after a proper filtering. Consider:
I want to hear it run before I consider bringing another vehicle near it.” Tossing a half-gallon of tainted gasoline on the pile, he followed it up with the dry wood. If he put a few splashes into a gas tank mixed with fresh gas, it would not harm the motor.
- Giving it to someone who can use it safely, for example, a landscape person or a workshop.
- Important Warning: Do not use gasoline if it has a strong sour smell or is dark in color. Dispose of it instead.
How To Dispose of Old Gasoline A Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a guide on how to properly and safely dispose of gasoline:
Step 1: Inspect the Gasoline
Rum with the gas for color, consistency and smell. If it looks clean and smells normal, it may be reusable. If no, continue with disposal.
Step 2: Transfer the Gasoline
Decant the gasoline SLOWLY into an approved container, like a gas can, or one that is approved for hazardous materials. Keep the container tightly closed to prevent leakage or fumes.
Step 3: Transport Safely
If driving to a hazardous waste facility, or a recycling site that accepts the gasoline, stand the gasoline container up in your vehicle’s trunk or truck bed. Secure the container with bungee cords or similar so it won’t spill.
Step 4: Adhere to the Facility Policy
If it is not possible for a patient to visit the group session in person, then during such times, you can implement telehealth for scheduling a video session.
When you get there, read the directions which tell you to follow the staff at the drop off location. Some may ask you to pour the gasoline into a specific container; others will do so for you.
Step 5: Clean Up Safely
Wash any tools or containers that came into contact with the transfer in soap and water. If gasoline spills out of the can as you maneuver it around, be sure to sop it up with an absorbent item (like cat litter or sand) so no dangerous residues are left behind, then discard the used absorbents as hazardous waste.
Safety Precautions
- And be sure to work in a well-ventilated space, lest you breathe in the fumes.
- Wear gloves and goggles to protect against spills and splashes.
- Avoid all sources of ignition, such as open flames, during handling.
How to Avoided Gasoline Waste : Tips for Prevention
The best cure for old gasoline is prevention, so be sure to use a gasoline stabilizer. Here’s how:
Use Fuel Stabilizers
Put a little fuel stabilizer in your gas when you buy it. Stabilizers prevent the fuel from deteriorating, and its stability can be extended by several months.
Store Gas Properly
Act NowStore gasoline in a labeled, airtight container that meets EPA standards for gasoline storage. Store it in a cool, dry place and avoid exposure to the sun as well as heat and open flame.
Purchase Only What You Need
Resist purchasing gas in large quantities unless you must. Lower amounts also means you are less likely to have fuel sitting unburned for a long time.
Rotate Stock Regularly
Mark the date when you fill a gas can, and use the oldest fuel first. This routine helps to make sure you’re not stuck with stale gasoline.
How to safely dispose of old gasoline today
Throwing away gasoline not only harms the environment and poses safety hazards, but also may carry legal penalties. If you’re aware of the risks, investigate safe disposal methods and use best practices, you can dispose of old gasoline in an environmentally responsible manner, protecting your community and the environment.
Got old fuel sitting around? Don’t risk it. Locate the closest hazardous waste site near you, or peruse our resources to start environmentally friendly disposal action today.
