Gasoline at home

There has been a steady decline in the average number of gasoline fires in homes each year since 1980 when there were 15,000 fires.

Facts & figures

• In 2003-2006, municipal fire departments responded to an estimated 2,400 gasoline structure fires in U.S. homes, annually. These fire resulted in 110 civilian deaths, 313 civilian injuries and $105.9 million in direct property damage.
• 49% of home gasoline structure fires each year between 2003 and 2006 were categorized as intentional. Almost three-quarters of civilian injuries resulted from unintentional causes. Fuel spills or releases; using gasoline to kindle fire, and gasoline too close to a heat source; were the leading factors contributing to ignition in home gasoline structure fires.
• Spark ember or flame from operating equipment was the most common ignition source in home gasoline structure fires, followed by matches and lighters.

Source: NFPA's Fire Analysis & Research Division

More information on this topic

• For more information on gasoline safety, visit the American Petroleum Institute and the Petroleum Equipment Institute Web sites.

NFPA does not test, label or approve any products.

Updated 7/09