Many people depend on jerry cans to store and transport fuel or water, yet few stop to think about how small mistakes can cause big problems. A jerry can may look simple, but it must be used correctly to stay safe and protect what it holds. Knowing how to handle, store, and choose the right jerry can prevents leaks, pressure build up, and damage that could lead to accidents.
This article explains the most common mistakes people make with jerry cans and how to avoid them. It covers issues such as using the wrong type of container, neglecting ventilation, and ignoring signs of wear or poor quality. Each point helps build safer habits that protect both the user and the environment.
1. Using jerry cans for liquids other than their intended purpose, like storing fuel in water cans
Many people assume that any jerry can can hold any liquid, but that mistake can cause contamination or safety hazards. Fuel cans use materials that resist corrosion and pressure, while water cans use food-grade plastic safe for drinking. Mixing their uses can lead to chemical residue or health risks.
Manufacturers design ergonomic jerry cans for specific tasks to make handling safer and more efficient. For example, fuel cans often include venting systems to reduce pressure build up, while water cans focus on clean storage and easy pouring. Using the wrong type defeats these safety features.
It is also important to label each can clearly. A can that once held petrol should never store water, even after cleaning, because traces of fuel can remain. Proper labelling and separate storage areas help prevent accidents and keep both people and equipment safe.
2. Neglecting to use jerry cans with proper ventilation, causing pressure build up and leaks
Many people overlook the importance of ventilation in jerry cans. A sealed can without proper venting can trap vapours and pressure, especially under heat or direct sunlight. This pressure can distort the container or force fuel out through small gaps.
Modern fuel cans often include self-venting spouts or built-in vents to manage pressure safely. These features allow air to flow while keeping vapours contained. Without them, even a small temperature rise can cause the can to swell or leak.
Proper ventilation also helps maintain fuel quality. Excess pressure may cause fumes to escape, wasting fuel and creating fire hazards. Therefore, users should always check that their jerry cans meet current safety standards and include venting features.
In addition, storing the can in a shaded, cool area reduces pressure build up. A well-ventilated jerry can not only prevents leaks but also extends the container’s lifespan and keeps fuel safe for use.
3. Failing to handle and store jerry cans carefully increases the risk of spills and accidents
Many people overlook how easily fuel can spill if a jerry can tips or leaks. A small mistake, such as leaving a cap loose or setting the can on an uneven surface, can cause fuel to escape and create a fire hazard. Proper handling prevents these avoidable accidents.
Fuel vapours build up in closed spaces, which raises the chance of ignition. Therefore, jerry cans should stay in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat or open flames. Direct sunlight can also weaken plastic cans and shorten their lifespan.
Transporting fuel in a vehicle requires extra care. Cans should stay upright and secure so they do not roll or shift during travel. Even minor movement can damage the seal and lead to leaks.
People who take time to inspect their cans for cracks, dents, or worn caps reduce the chance of spills. A few simple precautions protect both safety and the environment.
4. Using damaged or corroded metal jerry cans without inspection, risking contamination or failure
Metal jerry cans can last for years, but damage or rust can weaken them. Small dents, cracks, or corrosion may cause leaks or allow contaminants to enter. Even minor flaws can lead to fuel or water spoilage, especially if the contents are stored for long periods.
Regular inspection helps prevent these problems. Users should check the can’s seams, lid, and interior for rust or residue before every use. If a can shows pitting, flaking, or discoloration, it should be replaced rather than reused.
Corrosion often starts inside the can, where moisture or leftover liquid reacts with the metal. Therefore, cans should be emptied completely and dried after use. Proper storage in a dry, covered area also helps slow down rust formation.
Neglecting inspection increases the chance of leaks or contamination that could damage engines or make stored water unsafe. A few minutes of checking can prevent costly or hazardous failures later.
5. Ignoring safety standards and using substandard plastic jerry cans prone to cracking or leaking
Many people overlook the importance of certified jerry cans. Containers that fail to meet safety standards can weaken under pressure or exposure to fuel, which may cause cracks or leaks. Such damage increases the risk of spills and fire hazards.
Approved jerry cans follow specific tests set by safety agencies to confirm material strength and chemical resistance. These standards help prevent fuel from breaking down the plastic or escaping through small openings.
Unapproved cans often use cheaper plastics that degrade faster. Over time, they may warp, split, or lose their seal. As a result, users face higher risks of fuel loss and environmental harm.
Therefore, choosing containers marked with recognized safety codes helps protect both people and property. It also supports compliance with transportation and storage regulations designed to reduce accidents.
Conclusion
Proper use of a jerry can help prevent leaks, contamination, and safety hazards. People often overlook small details, such as using the right container for fuel or water and keeping the cap sealed tightly. These small steps protect both the user and the stored contents.
Each mistake, from poor ventilation to improper grounding, can lead to real risks. Therefore, users should always inspect the can for damage, store it upright, and keep it away from heat sources.
By following safe handling methods and regular maintenance, jerry cans can last longer and perform as expected. A little attention to detail makes fuel storage safer and more efficient for everyone.
Disclosure: This is a featured post.
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