Petrol, when ignited in a controlled manner to power engines, serves a very useful purpose. Because it is so commonplace, however, we sometimes take its presence for granted. But the same quality of explosive ignition that makes petrol so valuable as a fuel can cause terrible injuries when it is handled carelessly or used in a manner for which it is not intended. Petrol and flammable liquid-related burns, however, are a preventable problem.
Deaths and injuries resulting from petrol ignition or exposure occur in a variety of ways. Many of the deaths and injuries associated with petrol occur at home. Petrol causes a significant number of burn injuries each year. This is why the World Burn Foundation Australia is involved in providing information on preventing petrol burn injuries.
Most of these injuries and deaths occur in and around the home, or result from improper transportation of petrol in portable containers.
Use petrol only for its intended purpose-to fuel an engine: