Flammable liquids are liquids that give off vapour which can catch fire from a spark or flame, such as petrol, paraffin, white spirit, many paints and thinners, and some cleaning solvents. The Health and Safety Executive puts it this way: liquids such as petrol and solvents in products like paint, adhesives and cleaning fluids “give off flammable vapour which, when mixed with air, can ignite or explode”. It’s the vapour that burns, so even a tin that seems sealed or empty can be a risk.
At Wigwam
Keeping flammable liquids out of every unit is part of how we keep everyone’s belongings safe. Units sit side by side, so the same rule for everyone protects your things as well as your neighbours’.
What stays out:
- petrol, diesel, oil, paraffin and other fuels, and fuel cans, even empty ones;
- paint, thinners, white spirit, solvents and flammable cleaning products;
- aerosols of every kind, whatever the label says, because each one is a pressurised can of gas;
- anything else whose label shows the flame symbol, such as some perfumes, nail varnish and hand gel.
If a liquid isn’t on that list and its label has no flame symbol, just ask us first.
Clearing a garage or shed
Garden machinery is welcome once it’s safe to store. A petrol mower or strimmer can go in when it’s been run completely dry: the fuel tank emptied, the carburettor run until the engine stops, and the engine oil drained. If it still smells of fuel, leave it out for now, and keep the fuel itself somewhere else. A motorbike can be stored on the same basis, with the battery taken out too.
Flammable liquids and hazardous goods
Flammable liquids are one kind of hazardous goods. Chemicals, and anything that gives off fumes or smells, stay out too, so a liquid that won’t burn can still be one to check. If you’re not sure, send us the product name or a photo of the label, or call us on 0800 2545585, and we’ll tell you before moving day.
Related terms
Related questions
- Can I store paint in a storage unit?
- Can I store a lawnmower or gas bottles?
- Can I store flammable stock for my business?
Further reading
- Health and Safety Executive: About dangerous substances