What Would Happen if a Person Drinks Gasoline? What Should Be Done?
Gasoline is a common energy source in our lives, essential for both automobiles and power generation. It is not edible and has a strong, irritating odor. If gasoline is ingested accidentally, it can easily cause damage to the esophagus and, in severe cases, may even lead to fatal consequences. Therefore, we should keep away from gasoline products in our daily lives and properly store gasoline. In case of a leakage emergency, it is important to quickly evacuate personnel from the contaminated area to a safe zone and isolate the area, strictly limiting access and cutting off all sources of ignition. Emergency personnel should be equipped with self-contained positive pressure respirators and wear fire protective clothing. It is necessary to cut off the source of the leakage as much as possible and prevent it from entering restrictive spaces such as sewers and drainage ditches. For small leaks, absorbent materials such as sand, vermiculite, or other inert materials can be used to absorb the gasoline. Alternatively, under safe conditions, the leaked gasoline can be burned on site. For large leaks, it is necessary to construct containment dikes or dig pits to collect the spilled gasoline. The spilled gasoline can be covered with foam to reduce vapor hazards. A explosion-proof pump can be used to transfer the spilled gasoline to a tanker truck or a dedicated collector for recycling or disposal at a waste treatment facility.
Protective measures for the respiratory system are generally not required, but in case of high-concentration exposure, a self-contained filtering respirator (half-facepiece) should be worn. Eye protection is also generally not required, but chemical safety goggles should be worn in case of high-concentration exposure. For body protection, anti-static work clothes should be worn. Smoking is strictly prohibited in the work area, and prolonged and repeated exposure should be avoided. In case of skin contact, immediately remove contaminated clothing, thoroughly wash the skin with soap and water, and seek medical attention. In case of eye contact, immediately flush the eyes with plenty of running water or normal saline for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. If gasoline is inhaled, quickly move to a fresh air area, maintain breathing, and provide oxygen if necessary. If breathing stops, perform artificial respiration immediately and seek medical attention. In case of ingestion, drink milk or use vegetable oil for gastric lavage and enema, and seek medical attention.
To extinguish a fire involving gasoline, spray water to cool the container and, if possible, move the container to an open area away from the fire. Suitable extinguishing agents include foam, dry powder, and carbon dioxide. Water can also be used to extinguish the fire.
