Covid-19 - Stay safe at the pump. Touching a filthy gas pump carries with it a significant risk.
COVID-19 and CORONAVIRUS
3-Tips for Staying Safe
First off, we should point out that there are ways to minimize your risk at a gas pump. The easiest method is by wearing protective gloves. We recommend disposable ones so that you can toss them right in the bin nearby after you’re down fueling. Many stations offer these right at the pumps. In a pinch, use a plastic grocery bag over your hand for the same result.
Other methods include bringing your own disinfecting spray to spray down both the pump and its handle, as well as the touch pad that’s used for making debit and credit card payments. The fuel station may not appreciate you spraying down their equipment though, so another method its to use a hand sanitizer immediately after you complete the process of fueling your vehicle.
Just How Dirty Are Gas Pumps?
Numerous studies have concluded that gas pumps are among the dirtiest surfaces you’ll encounter. We’ve linked a couple below:
Gas pump handles top study of filthy surfaces
Gas Station Germs: Guzzling Grime by the Gallon?
While the stories above lay out the details, the easiest method for showing how filthy gas pumps truly are is with some simple imagery. Let’s take a look:
Way dirtier than a household toilet too…
Travel With Style, Not With Germs
A lot of things are dirty, but gas stations might just take the cake. It’d be nice if our gas tanks were capable of self-filling, but until that happens, visiting a gas station is most definitely in your future. Luckily, there are things you can do to keep germs at bay, like using paper towels to grab and handle gas pumps, or washing your hands with antibacterial soap after visiting the pump.
Stay healthy during these times and remember to come to Rice Tire with all of your automotive needs.
VIRGINIA