To reduce the risk of fire when fueling a vehicle, what is a recommended practice?

To reduce the risk of fire when fueling a vehicle, touching the fuel hose nozzle against the filler pipe is the recommended practice. This technique is intended to create a bond between the nozzle and the filler pipe, which can help to prevent the buildup of static electricity. Static electricity is a significant concern at fueling stations, as it can ignite fuel vapors if a spark occurs. By ensuring a direct connection and minimizing the gap between the nozzle and the filler pipe, you reduce the likelihood of creating static discharge.

The other practices, while they may seem practical for efficiency or convenience, actually pose risks. For instance, filling the tank quickly can lead to spills, which increase fire hazards. Keeping the engine running during fueling can also trigger ignition sources from the vehicle's electrical systems. Leaving the vehicle unattended while fueling is particularly dangerous, as it removes the ability to quickly address any spills or fires that might occur. Thus, ensuring the nozzle contacts the filler pipe is a safe and recommended approach when fueling a vehicle.