Interpretation ID: nht79-3.13

DATE: 11/09/79

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Frank Berndt; NHTSA

TO: Chief, Cleveland Fire Department

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT: This is in response to your letter of July 2, 1979, in which you asked for copies of any current or recommended standards concerning the use of plastic auxiliary fuel tanks. May I apologize for the delay in this response.

I have enclosed a copy of a letter, which was sent to a company which planned to manufacturer auxiliary fuel tanks and to do some installation, that details the ways in which the safety standards and statutes administered by this agency apply to the manufacture of auxiliary fuel tanks of all types. In addition, I have enclosed a copy of an advance notice of proposed rulemaking that this agency issued with respect to a proposal to issue performance standards applicable to nonmetallic fuel tanks.

At this time the agency does not have any standards applicable to the use of auxiliary fuel tanks. However, several months ago we issued a consumer advisory warning against carrying fuel in portable containers in the trunks of cars. We consider this advisory applicable not only to portable containers but to any fuel container mounted in an area not normally consigned to such use. I have enclosed a copy of this advisory for your information. In addition, we are planning to issue a press release in the near future specifically addressed to the dangers of using auxiliary fuel tanks.

If you have any reports, case histories, photographs, or other material concerning any fires or fire problems caused by the use of auxiliary fuel tanks we would be most grateful if you would allow us to examine them. Your concern in this area of vehicle safety is deeply appreciated.

Sincerely,

City of Cleveland

July 2, 1979

U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Re: Auxiliary Fuel Tanks for Motor Vehicles

Gentlemen:

Due to the gasoline fuel shortage, we are facing a new problem in the fire service. The use of plastic auxiliary fuel tanks has become more prevalent and responsible for vehicle fires. The concern for fire fighters, fighting a fire in a vehicle containing one of these tanks is paramount.

A copy of any standards or recommendations in effect or being considered will be used to inform the fire suppression units of this Department.

Please furnish any product manufacturers that have approval for installation.

William E. Barry, Chief Division of Fire

CC: LT. DEIGHTON