Flammable hazards

Many products found around the home are flammable. This means that they are easily ignited and capable of burning rapidly. Solvents, oil-based paints, charcoal lighter fluid, and gasoline are typical examples of flammable liquids. If open to air, these products vaporize, and may explode if they come into contact with a spark or pilot light.

Always follow the label instructions and these standard safety precautions:

• Keep flammable products tightly sealed and store them away from electrical appliances or open flames.
• Do not smoke cigarettes around flammable chemicals. Do not do anything that can produce a spark, such as hammering, sawing, chiseling, chipping, scraping, or power sanding. Do not allow welding around flammable products.
• Use flammable chemicals only in well-ventilated areas.
• Dispose of old rags that were used with flammable liquids or oil.
• Read and follow product label instructions.
• Properly dispose of unused or unneeded flammables.
• Do not attempt to light a fire using gasoline. Use charcoal starter fluid carefully and according to instructions. Do not add more starter fluid once you have started the fire.
• Carefully check the connections and rubber hoses on any gas- powered barbecue grill. Repair damage before using. Do not store such grills in the sun or where they can get very hot. This will cause the gas in a full tank to expand and possibly explode. Do not use barbecue grills of any type near the house or other structure.
• Keep an ABC-type fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to use it. Check that it is properly charged each month.

For more information, contact your local fire department.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File PERS4863.rf2 VRS# 4863 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.