Road trips are an absolute blast, aren’t they? All that open road, your favorite songs cranked up, stumbling upon those wonderfully weird roadside attractions, and making memories that stick with you like tar on a hot summer tire. There’s a real sense of freedom in just going where the wind takes you. But even on the most carefree journey, there’s one pit stop that’s less about the open road and more about hidden traps: the gas station.
While they’re essential for keeping your journey going, gas stations can also be magnets for minor mishaps or even significant security risks. A little caution and a few smart tips & techniques can save you from a world of hurt, from a dent in your finances to a complete derailment of your travel plans. So, before you hit the pumps on your next great American road trip, here are twelve things you should avoid doing.
Using Your Phone While Pumping Gas
Despite the signs, some people still use their phones while pumping gas. While the risk of a fire caused by a cell phone spark is low, it’s not zero. The primary danger is distraction. It’s safer and smarter to put your phone away and focus on the task at hand. This simple productivity rule can underpin your safety and that of others in the heart of the station.
Leaving Your Car Unlocked
It seems obvious, but people often get complacent at gas stations. Stepping away from your vehicle for even a moment to grab a healthy snack or use the restroom without locking the doors is like putting a “Help Yourself” sign on your car. Opportunistic individuals are always on the lookout for an easy score. This simple lapse in productivity can turn your joyful adventure into a nightmare. Auto theft statistics show that unlocked vehicles are targeted in over 50% of vehicle thefts (Source: National Insurance Crime Bureau).
Leaving Valuables In Plain Sight
That fancy laptop, your purse or wallet, or even just loose money on the passenger seat, is like shining a beacon for thieves. When you pull up to the pump, take a quick scan of your car’s interior from the outside. If you can see it, a criminal can too. Tuck valuables away in the trunk or under a seat before you even get to the gas station. It’s advisable to make your car look uninteresting.
Paying With A Debit Card At The Pump
While convenient, using your debit card directly at the pump can be risky. Gas pump skimmers, devices that steal your card information, are unfortunately common. If your debit card is compromised, your actual bank account is directly at risk. It’s often wiser to pay inside with your credit card or use cash, which offers more protection against fraud.
Ignoring Your Surroundings
It’s easy to get absorbed in your phone or distracted while pumping gas, but this can make you an easy target for theft. Stay aware of who is around you, what cars are pulling up, and any suspicious behavior. Maintaining situational awareness is a key self-improvement tip and technique for staying well on the road. A moment of distraction could ruin your entire adventure.
Leaving Your Wallet Or Phone On The Pump
In the rush to get back on the road, it’s surprisingly common to leave your wallet, phone, or even your keys on top of the gas pump. According to statistics, the average person loses up to nine items every day. Always make it a habit to check the top of the pump before you pull away, a quick Productivity check that saves massive headaches. It’s an easy mistake that can occur during a moment of distraction.
Filling Up With The Wrong Fuel
This is perhaps the most daunting mechanical mistake you can make at a gas station. Putting diesel in a gasoline car, or vice versa, can cause severe engine damage. Always double-check the pump handle before starting fueling, especially if you’re driving a rental car or an unfamiliar vehicle. Taking that extra second to confirm can save you thousands in repairs, truly enhancing your travel budget.
Walking Away From The Pump While Fueling
It’s tempting to start pumping and then wander off to grab snacks or use the restroom. However, leaving a fueling vehicle unattended is a major fire hazard. Static electricity, spills, or equipment malfunctions can occur, and you need to be present to react immediately. This is a fundamental health and wellness rule for safety at the pump. During the five-year period from 2014 to 2018, local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 4,150 fires in or on service or gas station properties per year.
Ignoring Tire Pressure
Before or after filling your tank, give a glance at your tires. Many gas stations have air pumps, making it easy to check and adjust tire pressure. Neglecting this basic precaution can impact your fuel economy, tire longevity, and most importantly, your safety. Proper tire inflation underpins a smoother, healthier road trip.
Leaving Children Or Pets Unattended In The Car
Never leave children or pets alone in the car while you go inside, even for “just a minute.” Temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly, even on a seemingly mild day, which can lead to heatstroke. Plus, an unattended vehicle can attract unwanted attention. Their health and wellness are paramount, and it’s advisable to take them with you or wait until a companion can supervise.
Accepting “Help” From Strangers
Be wary of strangers who approach you at the pump offering “help” with your car or claiming to be out of gas. While some might be genuinely in need, others might be running a scam or trying to distract you to pickpocket. It’s advisable to decline and maintain a safe distance politely.
Using The Restroom Without Locking The Car
Even if you’re just popping into the convenience store bathroom, take your keys and lock your car. This combines the risk of an unlocked vehicle with the increased time you’ll be away from it. It’s a prime opportunity for someone to grab items or even drive off with your car quickly. In 2022, more than one million vehicles were reported stolen, and overall vehicle thefts increased by about one percent nationwide, from 1,008,756 in 2022 to 1,020,729 in 2023.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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