Safely store flammable and combustible liquids and gasses

You might not always think about it, but vapors from flammable and combustible liquids and gas can ignite easily. Make sure you are storing them properly and safely.

• Read the label. Hazardous products should have storage and safety information written on the label. Read that information before you use or store the product.
• Store them away from vapors and heat sources. Gasoline, kerosene, paint thinner, paint solvents, and some cleaning fluids, have vapors that can ignite. Store them away from heat sources, including stoves and electric motors. An ideal place would be outside the home, like a garden shed.
• Watch those dirty rags. Oily and solvent-wet rags just sitting in open air can catch fire. Store these rags in tightly-sealed metal containers away from structures.
• Be careful with your hairspray. Some items in your bathroom, such as hairspray, nail polish, and nail polish remover are flammable and shouldn’t be used near flames—and definitely don’t smoke while using them.

Learn more

• NFPA's Safety with oily rags tips

• USFA's Home Hazardous Materials