I don’t pump my own gas, I’m a Jersey girl.
But when Ford Motors shared tips on how to safely pump gas, I found it interesting. I thought it should be shared especially since we’re at a time in history where it’s really essential for the right info to be shared. It’s important to keep ourselves and each other safe, including safely pumping gas.
Here are some tips on how to help stay safe from unwanted germs while pumping gas.
Related: 5 Ways to Get Better Gas Mileage In Any Car
Stay Clean, Stay Safe While Pumping Gas
As the graphic shows, you can help the community stay safe and germ-free. Since the outbreak, we’ve learned that the virus can live on metal and plastic surfaces. So if you have disposable gloves, it may be a good idea to wear them when going to pump gas. Just remember not to touch anything else while doing this! Here’s a breakdown of what you can do to stay safe.
- Protect your hands- use disposable gloves to safely pump gas. But remember not to touch your face, phone, or anything. And remember to properly dispose of the gloves in a trash bin. If you don’t have gloves, use a napkin or paper towel.
- Practice social distancing- stay far from anyone around you. 6 feet is what the CDC suggested early on but more recently, they suggested to stay even further away. Perhaps even 12 feet (if possible) to be safe.
- Carry sanitizer- I keep sanitizer in the car and in my purse. If you have some on hand, be sure to sanitize your hands after you get in the car. Try not to touch anything until you get home so you can wash your hands. Sanitizer is good for the moment but will not fully protect you.
- Wash your hands- As soon as you can, wash your hands with soap and water and cover all areas. Use the 20-second rule.
- Wear a mask- It doesn’t hurt anyway, gas fumes aren’t exactly the best for your health. And even though in New Jersey and New York it’s now mandatory, they can be difficult to find. You can easily make one with a scarf and hair ties.
Not So Fun Facts
Ford even included stats (you know for those who just don’t get how serious this all is) to inform the community. These not so fun facts were pretty shocking to me. For instance, a gas pump handle has more bacteria than a toilet seat- 11,000 times more! And 71% are highly contaminated. That’s a pretty high number.
Together, We Can Do Better
By practicing safety and precaution, we can avoid contamination. The most important thing is to avoid touching the gas pump with your bare hands and if you must, wash them thoroughly afterward. That and practice social distancing. And wear a mask while you’re at it ?
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