Fuel bottles come in practically...
Fuel bottles come in practically every color of the rainbow. Choose carefully, and remember: Translucent colors for the transportation and storage of alcohol, and black for gasoline.
Fuel jugs do not last forever. They wear out, just like any other part on the racecar, and should be replaced on a regular basis. The caps need to be inspected regularly as well. If you store the jugs in the sun for extended periods of time the sun will degrade the plastic and the jug will get brittle. It is not uncommon for the caps to crack. It always seems to happen at the most inopportune time, such as when you are trying to remove the cap or when you have just filled the bottle and the cap cracks when you are reinstalling it. And it is not just the caps that can crack, as the bottles can crack as the jugs get older. This is not a common occurrence, but it does happen. Not a good thing to arrive at the track with five gallons of fuel sloshing around on the floor of the trailer.
Another thing most racers do not know is that there are local, state, and federal laws regarding the transportation of fuel. Many racers are able to obtain their fuel from vendors at the track. There are some real advantages to doing this. One is that you do not have to spend money on fuel until you need it. From an inventory control perspective that is a real advantage. But if you are going to transport fuel on the open road you need to be aware of the laws regarding the transportation of fuel.
Purchasing a fire extinguisher...
Purchasing a fire extinguisher should be considered as much of a necessity as tires. Never race without at least one. You should have multiple fire extinguishers-in the shop, the tow vehicle, the trailer, and the pits. Get a fire extinguisher that is rated for liquid fires. If you have any questions the local fire department will be more than glad to answer them.
It goes almost without saying that you should be carrying a number of fire extinguishers, one in the trailer, one in your tow vehicle, and one that is part of your pit equipment. Fire extinguishers are much cheaper than a trip to the local burn center. A quality fire extinguisher can be purchased at the local Home Depot or Lowe's for a very reasonable cost, especially when you consider the cost of your racecar and related equipment.
Bottom line--the transportation and storage of fuel is a process that requires care and respect. Follow some basic safety rules. The stored energy of fuel is an awesome power, so make sure you are following local and state regulations regarding the transportation and storage of fuel. It is just that simple.
DO carry fire extinguishers when you are transporting fuels.
DO make sure that fuel jugs and fuel cans are well secured in your trailer or truck.
DO become familiar with the laws and ordinances that are related to fuel transportation.
DO make sure that storage containers for alcohol are not vented to the atmosphere.
DO keep your fuel containers clean inside and out. Use a filter when filling the fuel containers and filter when transferring fuel to the racecar.
DON'T purchase any more fuel than you will need for each day of racing. There is no reason to stock up. Fresh fuel is better that stale fuel. So any savings based on buying in bulk may be lost in lower vehicle performance.
DON'T store gasoline in translucent containers. Use black plastic or metal cans that are designed to store gasoline.
DON'T allow the fuel jugs to move during transportation.