Mercedes Mullins
Fuel is a critical resource for preppers, but storing it requires careful consideration due to its flammable nature. The amount and type of fuel stored depend on factors such as location, intended use, and the desired duration of the fuel supply. Preppers often opt for a variety of fuels, including gasoline, diesel, propane, kerosene, coal, wood, and charcoal. Gasoline, for instance, can be stockpiled in 5-gallon containers and rotated annually to maintain freshness. Diesel, on the other hand, has a shorter shelf life of about six months. Propane, a convenient fuel for off-grid cooking, should be stored in a well-ventilated area, while firewood, which produces more heat when seasoned, should be kept dry. Kerosene, an affordable option, is energy-dense and provides ample heat per gallon. Coal, favoured by some preppers, can be stored in large quantities in an earthen pit and has an indefinite shelf life. Overall, the choice and quantity of fuel depend on individual needs and circumstances, with safety being a key consideration.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel type | Gasoline, kerosene, alcohol, coal, wood, charcoal, propane, petroleum-based fuels |
| Amount | 10-15 gallons of ethanol-free gasoline, 20 gallons of gas, 2 20lb propane tanks, 5 gallons in Eagle Safety Can, 30 gallons for generator/old jeep, 50 gallons in vehicles, 66 gallons of treated gas in steel cans, 10 gallons of propane |
| Storage | Metal/steel jerrycans in a dedicated storage shed, well-ventilated area, away from other structures and chemicals |
| Usage | Running vehicles, generators, camp stoves, lanterns, heaters, BBQs, cooking, heating |
| Conservation techniques | Using less fuel, converting to wood-burning options, using solar panels |
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What You'll Learn
The best types of fuel to stockpile
Kerosene
Kerosene is a good option for those who need fuel for generators or vehicles. It has a long shelf life and is cost-effective.
Gasoline
Gasoline is a petroleum-based fuel that can be used to power vehicles, machines, and tools. It is a valuable resource in a survival situation. However, it requires careful storage and handling due to its flammable nature.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a good storage fuel with a long shelf life. It is suitable for cooking and heating, as it burns clean enough for indoor use. However, it produces small amounts of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide when burned, so adequate ventilation is necessary. Alcohol is highly flammable and should be stored away from chemicals.
Wood
Wood is a renewable resource that can be used for cooking, heating, and even fuel for vehicles with the right modifications. It is a safe option for those seeking non-combustible fuel, although it may require a large storage space.
Coal
Coal is a long-lasting fuel that can be used for heating, cooking, and generating electricity. It can be stored in an earthen pit and has an indefinite shelf life. However, it also requires ample storage space.
Propane
Propane is a versatile fuel that can be used for grilling, generators, camp stoves, lanterns, and heaters. It is a convenient option for those seeking an alternative to gasoline.
The amount of fuel to stockpile will vary depending on individual needs and usage rates. Implementing conservation techniques can help reduce the amount of fuel needed and make stockpiling more manageable.
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How much fuel to store
The amount of fuel a prepper should store depends on several factors, including where they live, the intended use of the fuel, and how long they need it to last. For example, those in New England may opt for wood as their primary fuel source due to the abundance of trees in the region.
It is recommended that you review different fuel types to determine which best meets your needs. For instance, alcohol is a good storage fuel with a long shelf life, but it burns only half as hot as some other fuels. It is suitable for cooking and heating, but it must be ventilated due to carbon monoxide production. Denatured alcohol is available in hardware stores and recommended by most manufacturers of alcohol-burning devices.
Another option is propane, which can be used for cooking, lighting, and heating. One prepper reported storing two 20-pound full propane tanks, about 20 gallons of gas, and about half a cord of firewood, with plans to add another cord. They use wood for BBQing and gas and propane as backup fuel sources.
For those with vehicles, it is possible to store fuel in the tank and rotate it out every few weeks. One prepper reported keeping 10 to 15 gallons of ethanol-free fuel for their mower and chipper, dumping it into their truck at the end of the season and starting fresh.
In summary, the amount of fuel a prepper should store depends on their specific needs and intended use. By reviewing the options available and implementing conservation techniques, it is possible to store a year's worth of emergency fuel.
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Safely storing fuel
When storing fuel, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure safety. Here are some detailed guidelines for safely storing fuel:
Choosing the Right Fuel for Storage
The type of fuel you store depends on your specific needs and requirements. Some fuels have longer shelf lives than others. For example, alcohol is a good storage fuel with a long shelf life, but it has a low flashpoint and is highly flammable, so extreme caution is needed when storing it. Non-combustible fuels like coal, wood, or charcoal are safer options when considering large volumes of fuel storage.
Storage Location and Environment
Store fuel in a detached shed or garage, ensuring it is at least 50 feet away from any potential ignition sources, such as pilot lights. Keep the fuel away from heat sources like the sun, hot water heaters, or furnaces. Always store fuel in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, and never smoke near the storage area.
Containers and Handling
Use approved containers or tanks for fuel storage, typically those with a capacity of 5 gallons or less. Leave some room in the container for expansion, and always keep the containers tightly closed. Handle the containers gently to avoid spills or leaks. Mark each container with the date of storage, and rotate the fuel regularly to maintain its quality.
Safety Precautions
Keep fuel out of the reach of children. Attend to spills immediately, absorbing minor spills with sawdust, paper, or rags, and containing larger spills. Do not mix gasoline with kerosene or diesel, and do not use gasoline in kerosene heaters or lamps. Check your local regulations for specific guidelines on fuel storage and disposal, and follow manufacturer guidelines for both devices and fuel.
By following these precautions, you can safely store fuel to meet your emergency preparedness needs.
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Using fuel efficiently
In the face of natural disasters, maintaining a steady and safe fuel supply is critical. Efficient fuel usage can become a lifeline during challenging times. Here are some tips for using fuel efficiently:
Choose the right fuel
Not all fuels are created equal, and some are more efficient than others. Kerosene, for example, is a cheap and efficient fuel source that can be used for lighting and stoves. It was the lantern fuel of choice throughout the nineteenth century and is still valued today for its brightness and clean burn. Diesel is another efficient option, as it tends to be more readily available even when other fuels run dry. White gas is also highly efficient, especially at high elevations, but it requires careful storage and handling due to its extreme flammability.
Store fuel properly
To make the most of your fuel supply, it's important to store it correctly. Keep gas cans away from all forms of water and use additives to extend their shelf life. Storage stabilizers, in particular, are ideal for emergency fuel supplies as they are designed to keep fuel fresh. Just be sure to check that the stabilizers are compatible with your engine type.
Efficient driving techniques
When it comes to using fuel efficiently in vehicles, there are several driving techniques you can adopt:
- Avoid unnecessary idling and high speeds.
- Accelerate gently and maintain a steady speed.
- Use cruise control when possible.
- Keep to the speed limit—most vehicles are most fuel-efficient between 50 and 80 km per hour.
- Remove unnecessary weight and items like roof racks to reduce aerodynamic drag.
- Use air conditioning sparingly, opting for open windows in the city and flow-through ventilation on the highway.
- Plan ahead and combine trips to drive less often.
- Carpool, bike, or take public transportation when possible.
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Alternative fuel sources
The amount and type of fuel to stockpile for emergency preparedness depend on where you live, the intended use, and how long your fuel supply needs to last. Here are some alternative fuel sources to consider:
Kerosene
Also known as paraffin, kerosene has been used as a fuel source in the States since the 1800s and is still the primary source of fuel in many developing countries. It is highly flammable and relatively dangerous, but it can be a valuable resource during crises. It can be used for cooking, lighting, and powering generators.
Wood
Wood is a renewable and abundant resource that can be used as a heat source and for cooking. It can also be used for water purification through boiling and distillation. Additionally, wood gas can be produced through a gasifier system to power vehicles or generators, but this requires significant skill and a complicated conversion process.
Alcohol
Distilled alcohol can be made at home from food waste and has a long shelf life if stored properly. It burns cleaner than other fuels and is suitable for indoor use, but it produces small amounts of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Denatured alcohol, available in hardware stores, is recommended by most manufacturers of alcohol-burning devices.
Vegetable Oil
Properly stored vegetable oil has a longer shelf life than gasoline and can be made at home with access to vegetables. It can be used to run old diesel engines like some tractors, but it is not suitable for modern diesel vehicles. With methanol, vegetable oil can be converted into biodiesel.
Propane
Propane is a versatile fuel that can be used for heating, cooking, and fuelling vehicles. It is a popular choice among preppers as it can be stored safely and indefinitely as long as the container remains intact. Propane containers come in various sizes, from portable cylinders to large tanks that can store up to 1,000 gallons.
Solar Power
While not a fuel source per se, solar power can be an alternative energy source for your home. It can be used as a backup during emergencies when other fuel sources may be scarce or inaccessible.
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Frequently asked questions
The amount of fuel you store will depend on where you live, the intended use of the fuel, and how long your fuel supply needs to last. It's important to note that extreme caution should be exercised when storing and handling flammable and combustible fuels. Non-combustible fuels such as coal, wood, or charcoal are safer alternatives when large volumes of fuel are required.
Coal, wood, and charcoal are examples of non-combustible fuels that can be used for heating, cooking, and generating electricity. For instance, coal can be stored in an earthen pit and has an indefinite shelf life. Wood is another option, especially if you live in an area with an abundance of trees, but remember to replenish what you cut down.
Petroleum-based fuels, gasoline, and alcohol are examples of combustible fuels. Alcohol has a long shelf life but will lose potency if left open. It burns at a lower temperature than other fuels but is suitable for cooking and heating. When storing alcohol, keep it away from chemicals and provide adequate ventilation as it has a low flashpoint and is highly flammable.
