I bought a car a few days ago (pics are here) and the dealer handed me a sheet of paper from Shell Oil. I'm not going to type out the two page letter, but the gist of it reads as follows:
“The Shell Oil Company recently issued a warning after three incidents in which mobile phones ignited fumes during fueling operations.
In the first case, the phone was placed on the car's trunk lid during fueling; it rang and the ensuring fire destroyed the car and the gasoline pump.
In the second, an individual suffered severe burns to their face ....
In the third, an individual suffered burns to the thigh and groin as fumes ignited when the phone, which was in their pocket, rang while they were fueling their car. “
The letter goes on about all their research and findings, but in the end they offer these tips to keep you and your car safe:
1. Turn off engine
2. Don't smoke
3.Don't use your cell phone - leave it inside the vehicle or turn it off
4. Don't re-enter your vehicle during fueling