Kerosene

Georgia Department of Agriculture fuel inspectors locked down a kerosene pump today at the Long Shoals Country Store, located at 1093 Sparta Hwy. in Eatonton. The kerosene is possibly contaminated with gasoline and has the potential to cause an explosion or fire if used in home heaters or lamps.

Inspectors from the Department’s Fuel & Measures Division discovered the contaminated product during a routine inspection of the store. The kerosene was sold during the month of November. At this time, it is unknown how many people may have purchased the fuel. Anyone who did should immediately return it for reimbursement.

A “stop-sale” order has additionally been placed on the kerosene pump, where it will remain closed until the problem has been corrected and new samples have been tested and approved.

The safe flashpoint for kerosene is 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. The sample tested today at the Long Shoals Country Store had a dangerous flashpoint of 76 degrees, causing it to be more easily combustible.

Fuel inspectors are currently working with the distributor to determine how many gallons were sold. As a preventative measure, they will additionally be testing other stations that received kerosene from the same distributor to ensure no one else has contaminated kerosene.

Consumers should always take precautions with space heaters. Check heaters and the kerosene for malfunctions and contamination between uses, especially if either have been sitting for some time.

Kerosene heaters should be filled and tested in an outdoor setting and operated only in a properly ventilated room on a level surface.

Space heaters should be kept at least 36 inches away from combustible walls, furnishings and other materials, such as drapes, fabric and paper and clothing. Turn it off before going to sleep and never leave a kerosene heater unattended.