Ask Pete

[#1]

While fueling up at my local gas station this past week, I set the lever on the pump handle and exercised my multi-tasking abilities by washing my windows as the vehicle filled up. As I approached my rear window, I glanced at the car at the next pump and couldn’t help noticing something that alarmed me.

The driver of that vehicle was pumping gas while chatting on her cell phone. What I found alarming, though, was that the driver’s door was wide open, the keys were in the ignition, and the woman’s purse was on the driver’s seat—completely unzipped, with her wallet in plain view. This was the trifecta of wrong!

While I’m typically not the cynical type, it looked like this trusting soul didn’t realize that she was offering a golden opportunity to would-be thieves, not to mention placing herself in a situation that is dangerous, yet easily avoidable.

We hear stories on the news of carjackings and think, “That could never happen to me.” To ensure that it doesn’t when you’re filling your tank at the local gas station, here are a few quick and simple tips to avoid putting yourself in such a vulnerable position:

• Make sure to visit service stations that are well lit and, if possible, have plenty of customer foot traffic 
• If you are on a cell phone, end the call before you exit the vehicle
• Don’t leave your wallet or purse in plain view
• Lock your vehicle every time you exit it
• Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings
• If you have to pay inside instead of at the pump, check around and underneath your vehicle when you return to it
• Before your re-enter your vehicle, check the interior—front AND back seat—from the outside
• After you re-enter your vehicle, immediately lock your doors

Stay safe out there!

[#2]

Good tips for all travellers!  I think this lady is an example of someone who is not aware of their surroundings, not to mention that cellphone use while pumping gas should be discouraged.  Multitasking is fine, but safety should be first in all things. 

[#3]

I agree with all the tips mentioned, but can someone explain again why cell phones shouldn't be used when pumping gas. I know this is true, but I forget why it is. Usually I think it is good to have one's cell phone visible, but is having it in your hand, even if you're not using it, still dangerous at the pump?

[#4]

I think this was a myth that has since been debunked. The reasoning was due to static electricity could ignite fuel vapors while fueling and only when the phone was in use.