October 1998Flying Smart  Aircraft Refueling  Tips for topping
off your tanks  Most FBOs provide line service personnel who are
happy to refuel our aircraft while we recheck the weather, run a
weight and balance, or have a cup of coffee. But times are
changing. Some FBOs allow customers to fuel their own aircraft,
and self-serve fuel islands are becoming a common sight at
airfields across the country.  Refueling an aircraft may seem
simple, especially because most of us fill up our cars almost
every day. Still, we should follow several important safety
precautions when we refuel an aircraft.  Before fueling, be
certain you know how to operate the pump. You also need to know
the location of any safety equipment and how to operate it.
Because mishaps can and do occur, be sure you know where the
emergency fuel shutoff switch is. This switch is usually located
away from the pump so you can reach it without approaching the
pump itself. Also, find out the location of fire extinguishers
and how to extinguish a fuel