Blitz gas cans
32 reports to CPSC, the latest made Jun 28, 2022. A report isn’t a recall.
Watch and the shortlist are kept with a free account, on every device. Your watch list. CPSC’s own search is on saferproducts.gov.
At a glance
From SaferProducts.gov, released Oct 25, 2026.
- 32reports to CPSC
- Jun 28, 2022the latest report was made
- May 18, 2011the earliest
- 5with the company’s comments
- Brand
- Blitz
- Makers
- Blitz U.S.A. and Scepter USAMakers, importers or sellers, as the reports name them
- Product
- Gas cansCPSC’s product type: Gasoline Cans (code 981), in Fuel, Lighters and Fireworks: Fuel Storage
Other ways the reports write the brand (8)
“Blitz U.S.A. Inc.”, “Blitz USA”, “BLITZ 5-GAL GASOLINE TANK, MODEL 5CXG.”, “BLITZ USA”, “Blitz Enviro-Flo”, “Blitz Mfg.”, “Blitz Self Venting Spout” and “Blitz gas can”
By month
The numbers, as a table
| Month | Reports |
|---|---|
| June 2022 | 1 |
| August 2020 | 1 |
| June 2018 | 1 |
| May 2018 | 1 |
| August 2017 | 1 |
| December 2016 | 1 |
| August 2016 | 3 |
| October 2015 | 1 |
| March 2015 | 1 |
| June 2014 | 2 |
| September 2013 | 1 |
| May 2013 | 4 |
| November 2012 | 1 |
| October 2012 | 2 |
| July 2012 | 1 |
| June 2012 | 2 |
| May 2012 | 1 |
| January 2012 | 1 |
| November 2011 | 1 |
| August 2011 | 1 |
| June 2011 | 1 |
| May 2011 | 3 |
How badly anyone was hurt
- Death 1
- Hospital admission 1 CPSC: Injury, Hospital Admission
- Emergency room 2 CPSC: Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
- First aid 1 CPSC: Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
- Hurt, no treatment 1 CPSC: Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
- No one hurt 26 CPSC: Incident, No Injury
As each report says it, in short words; CPSC’s own words are under each.
The reports, as CPSC published them
Reports people made to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. CPSC publishes each one after sending it to the company named, and doesn’t guarantee they’re accurate. A report isn’t a recall.
Each report is the words of the person who made it, as CPSC published them. The company’s comments, where CPSC published any, are set apart as the company’s own.
CPSC, SaferProducts.gov public database export. Released Oct 25, 2026. Updated daily.
-
No one hurt Made Jun 28, 2022, sent to the company Jul 5, 2022, published by CPSC Jul 19, 2022
The product, in the report: Blitz EnviroFlo 2 gallon gasoline jug UPC 44549 80010
Blitz EnviroFlo 2 gallon gasoline jug UPC 44549 80010 plastic weld seam split at the handle. Only normal home use. The jug had never been misused or dropped.
- UPC
- 44549 80010
- Where
- Gwynn Oak, Maryland: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 20, 2020, sent to the company Oct 14, 2020, published by CPSC Oct 7, 2020
The product, in the report: Blitz 5-gallon gasoline can Model 900900
I was transferring gasoline between two containers when the fill spout on the container I was holding suddenly and unexpectedly broke and caused gasoline to spill out onto my driveway. Fortunately, there was no fire or injury, just a big mess. The spout that broke was a Blitz USA model 900900 with a serial number of 060410161 stamped on the handle. The spout failure could have caused serious damage or injury in any other circumstance; I was just lucky.
- Model
- 900900
- Serial number
- 060410161
- Bought from
- do not remember, North Carolina
- Bought
- Aug 1, 2015, about then
- Where
- Catawba, North Carolina: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 73, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jun 7, 2018, sent to the company Jun 15, 2018, published by CPSC Jun 29, 2018
The product, in the report: Red five gallon gas container
The five gallon gas container manufactured by Blitz USA is made of some sort of plastic or plastic like materials and the seam at the top handle begins to separate and allows gasoline and vapors to leak through the handle. The handles are apparently to well sealed and lifting a container of gasoline (five gallons) appears to weaken the seam and allow the vapors and gasoline to escape at the top and bottom of the handle thereby creating a serious hazard.
- Model
- 50833
- UPC
- NA
- Serial number
- NA
- Bought from
- Walmart, New Mexico
- Bought
- Jun 16, 2016
- Where
- Albuquerque, New Mexico: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 74, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand BLITZ, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Hospital admission Made May 3, 2018, sent to the company Jul 5, 2018, published by CPSC Jul 26, 2018
The product, in the report: 2 Gal. Plastic Gas Can
On May 1, 2018 a 25 year old male was attempting to refuel a leaf blower using a Blitz brand 2 gal. gas container. While refueling he noticed that the can began to smoke from the nozzle. He set the can down, which then ignited causing 13% first and second degree burns to his left hand, arm, and torso. The victim was treated at a local hospital and then transfered to a burn center.
- Where
- Flemington, New Jersey: Other Public Property/
Office - Who was involved
- Age 25, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Hospital Admission
-
Hurt, no treatment Made Aug 28, 2017, sent to the company Sep 6, 2017, published by CPSC Sep 21, 2017
The product, in the report: Red plastic
Filling a new power washer, my Blitz 1.3 gal can split and spewed gas all over me. This can was bought less than three years ago and only the second time it was used. I had put in a gallon of non ethanol gas about two weeks ago.
- Bought from
- Lowes, North Carolina
- Bought
- Mar 2, 2015, about then
- Where
- Greensboro, North Carolina: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 61, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Scepter USA
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
-
No one hurt Made Dec 14, 2016, sent to the company Jan 4, 2017, published by CPSC Jan 27, 2017
The product, in the report: Gas Can Spout
A while back I purchased several Blitz Enviro-Flo Spouts for plastic gasoline containers from Walmart but I believe they are marketed through several other stores as well. On the label they state they are a “Spill-Proof System”. I recently noticed a can I have with gasoline was open and the spout and valve were laying on the ground yet the screw remained on the can and was tight around the gas can. The valve apparently just fell off while sitting on the floor of my garage. There appears to be a serious design flaw in these spouts and when the spout fails, it can fall on the ground like mine did when no one is around, it can fall off if someone bumps the can or if it was lightly bumped in the trunk of a car, or it could easily break when pouring gas since quite a bit of pressure is required to depress the valve to allow gasoline to flow. The design flaw is associated with 6 very small plastic tabs that hold the spout together. When the plastic deteriorates or fatigues, presumably due to aging or light, the plastic tabs can break off, and the spout separates from the can leaving an opening that is about 1.5” across. Both the spout and the screw ring are very sturdy. The design flaw is in how the spout and the screw ring are held together. They are coupled with a little piece of plastic that has 6 very small plastic tabs and in my case, two of the tabs failed and the spout fell off of the can. The tabs are about the size of a flat wooden toothpick. Prior to failing, the spout appears to be very strong and it is not apparent that this design flaw is present. In my case, the spout has probably been used only a few times so the wear on the product should have been negligable. Should you have any interest, I can send the defective parts or pictures of the problem. I am approaching you because I believe this design flaw is a problem waiting to occur with potentially devastating consequences. Fortunately I found the problem without having a spill or a fire. Although I am not a structural or safety engineer so am not qualified to give a professional opinion on this defect at this time, I am an electrical engineer and am keenly aware of public safety concerns and the importance of avoiding any designs or introducing any products that are an inherent risk to the safety of the public.
- Where
- Ames, Iowa: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 24, 2016, sent to the company Aug 31, 2016, published by CPSC Sep 15, 2016
The product, in the report: Plastic Gasoline Containers Purchase Date; September 2013
Caller has found a safety hazard with a 5 gallon plastic gasoline container manufactured by Blitz Manufacturing which is now out of business.
The caller states that over time when the gasoline expands the seam breaks apart allowing gasoline to leak out of them
He said he believes that these gas cans were manufactured of high density polyethylene which has a known propensity for stress cracking.
He is reporting this occurrence after this happened to the first of 4 containers in his garage he has retained all of the containers. mid July 2016.
He then went on a vacation and received a call from his neighbor August 2nd, 2016 who informed him that two additional containers identical to the first one had split and gasoline was spilled under his car in his garage from these containers.
He said this needs to be reported as a fire hazard because other consumers may also have these gas cans in their possession.
there are no injuries being reported
He cannot contact the manufacturer, they are no longer in business
This is an addendum to the report referenced above, related to a severe gasoline storage container hazard:
In approximately September, 2013 the caller purchased four 5-gallon plastic gasoline storage containers, manufactured by Blitz U.S.A. These were filled with automotive gasoline and stored in a sheltered location inside their garage.
On or about July 15 of this year, he began to notice an odor of gasoline in the garage. It turned out that one of the four containers had a split along the line where the mold opens in the molding process used in manufacture. He poured the remaining gasoline into another container and left the leaking container in an outside location, with its cap removed, so that any remaining gasoline could evaporate.
Then, on August 2, at which time they were away from home, he received a telephone call from a neighbor who had entered their garage. He reported that he had found a puddle of gasoline on the garage floor, over a fairly wide area -extending under the caller’s car and flowing into a floor drain. The source was not one - but two - of the remaining 5-gallon containers which had split open. Obviously they were extremely fortunate that this did not result in an explosion or fire.
The caller will now relate details about these storage containers. As it happens, he has a number of years’ experience in the design and manufacture of molded plastic parts used in medical instruments. This experience includes dealing with the phenomenon of stress-cracking of products molded from high density polyethylene (HDPE).
The containers are molded of red plastic which to the caller had the appearance of HDPE. However, he was not able to find anything on the container which identified the type of plastic. He was reassured by the Underwriters Laboratories symbol on the side, and the implication that the product was U.L. approved. The containers were manufactured by Blitz U.S.A. (which he understand went through bankruptcy several years ago - circa 2009 - because of product liability unrelated to failures of the molded container).
The caller is enclosing 5 photographs of the container that failed first:
Photo 1 - Shows the entire container, the manufacturer’s emblem, and the U.L. emblem
Photo 2 - Shows the lower handle area, with arrows indicating the location of the crack which caused leakage
Photo 3 -Shows one side of the container, with legend identifying the manufacturer as Blitz U.S.A. Inc., of Miami, OK. Also shown is the model number: 31733
Photo 4 -Shows the side opposite that of Photo 3 -the same side shown in Photo 1 but showing greater detail
Photo 5 -Shows the bottom of the container, with a pair of time stamps
The caller is retaining all 4 of the containers, should anyone have a need for further information which could be obtained by examining them.
Since these failures occurred, the caller has visited their local Lowe’s and Home Depot stores to obtain replacements. Lowe’s had only a single metallic container available - all the rest were plastic and he was told by the manager that they were supplied by Blitz. Examining these containers, in various sizes, each one did have lettering which identified the plastic as HDPE.
Stress cracking is a very well-known phenomenon which, to my knowledge, occurs only with HDPE. It is related to the semi-crystalline structure of HDPE, and occurs at the interface between microscopic crystal boundaries. It’s very treacherous since it occurs with a tensile force on the plastic which causes far less than the ‘yield stress’ which will reproducibly cause stretching and failure on bench testing of strength. To cause this cracking, however, the tensile force must be applied for a long time. (In the case of my containers, it required about 3 years!) Typically it will take place where there is a ‘stress riser’ such as at a parting line which results from the molding process. It was at a parting line (along the inside of the handle) that failure occurred in the 3 of my containers which failed.
Very unfortunately, it is extremely challenging - perhaps totally impossible - to evaluate products molded of HDPE for the possibility of delayed stress failure. This is because of the highly variable time required for failure, the variable effects of stress, the variable effects of storage conditions (temperature especially), and the variable effects of small differences in molding especially at a parting line where tool wear will result in changes over time. Further, depending on the molding process, there can be built-in residual stress which will result in eventual stress cracking without any additional stress being applied due to the weight of what is being stored (the weight of 5 gallons of gasoline is about 30 pounds).
Following this container failure, the caller accessed the CPSC database, looking to see whether there are other reports of similar failures. In doing this, he found Report No. 20121018-70583-2147462751. This report describes failure of a Blitz fuel container (described as ‘splitting’) which occurred in 2012. It reportedly occurred 3 years after its purchase. Model number of the container was [REDACTED].
Gasoline will not attack HDPE. And, HDPE is inexpensive compared to many other plastics which could be used to store gasoline. However, because of its liability for stress-cracking. it should never be considered to be an appropriate or safe material for containers used to store gasoline or other hazardous liquids.
It seems imperative, given the mission of the CPSC, to advise the public of the extreme danger of storing gasoline in containers molded of HDPE. Consideration could perhaps be given to advising that very short-term storage is less dangerous, given the process by which stress-cracking occurs.
Obviously, there would be financial fall-out from such an action, but the possibility for tragic consequences from the use of such container would have to take strong priority. After talking with a local fire department official, it seems highly likely that there have indeed been a number of fires caused by such containers, without the cause being identifiable.
Feel free to contact me if you judge that there might be any further useful information which I could provide.
Very truly yours, [REDACTED]
- Model
- 5 Gallon 31733
- Serial number
- unknown
- Bought from
- Home Depot or Lowe’s or Walmart, Pennsylvania
- Where
- Enola, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz U.S.A. Inc., made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 24, 2016, sent to the company Aug 31, 2016, published by CPSC Sep 15, 2016
The product, in the report: Plastic Gasoline Containers Purchase Date; September 2013
Caller has found a safety hazard with a 5 gallon plastic gasoline container manufactured by Blitz Manufacturing which is now out of business.
The caller states that over time when the gasoline expands the seam breaks apart allowing gasoline to leak out of them
He said he believes that these gas cans were manufactured of high density polyethylene which has a known propensity for stress cracking.
He is reporting this occurrence after this happened to the first of 4 containers in his garage he has retained all of the containers. mid July 2016.
He then went on a vacation and received a call from his neighbor August 2nd, 2016 who informed him that two additional containers identical to the first one had split and gasoline was spilled under his car in his garage from these containers.
He said this needs to be reported as a fire hazard because other consumers may also have these gas cans in their possession.
there are no injuries being reported
He cannot contact the manufacturer, they are no longer in business
This is an addendum to the report referenced above, related to a severe gasoline storage container hazard:
In approximately September, 2013 the caller purchased four 5-gallon plastic gasoline storage containers, manufactured by Blitz U.S.A. These were filled with automotive gasoline and stored in a sheltered location inside their garage.
On or about July 15 of this year, he began to notice an odor of gasoline in the garage. It turned out that one of the four containers had a split along the line where the mold opens in the molding process used in manufacture. He poured the remaining gasoline into another container and left the leaking container in an outside location, with its cap removed, so that any remaining gasoline could evaporate.
Then, on August 2, at which time they were away from home, he received a telephone call from a neighbor who had entered their garage. He reported that he had found a puddle of gasoline on the garage floor, over a fairly wide area -extending under the caller’s car and flowing into a floor drain. The source was not one - but two - of the remaining 5-gallon containers which had split open. Obviously they were extremely fortunate that this did not result in an explosion or fire.
The caller will now relate details about these storage containers. As it happens, he has a number of years’ experience in the design and manufacture of molded plastic parts used in medical instruments. This experience includes dealing with the phenomenon of stress-cracking of products molded from high density polyethylene (HDPE).
The containers are molded of red plastic which to the caller had the appearance of HDPE. However, he was not able to find anything on the container which identified the type of plastic. He was reassured by the Underwriters Laboratories symbol on the side, and the implication that the product was U.L. approved. The containers were manufactured by Blitz U.S.A. (which he understand went through bankruptcy several years ago - circa 2009 - because of product liability unrelated to failures of the molded container).
The caller is enclosing 5 photographs of the container that failed first:
Photo 1 - Shows the entire container, the manufacturer’s emblem, and the U.L. emblem
Photo 2 - Shows the lower handle area, with arrows indicating the location of the crack which caused leakage
Photo 3 -Shows one side of the container, with legend identifying the manufacturer as Blitz U.S.A. Inc., of Miami, OK. Also shown is the model number: 31733
Photo 4 -Shows the side opposite that of Photo 3 -the same side shown in Photo 1 but showing greater detail
Photo 5 -Shows the bottom of the container, with a pair of time stamps
The caller is retaining all 4 of the containers, should anyone have a need for further information which could be obtained by examining them.
Since these failures occurred, the caller has visited their local Lowe’s and Home Depot stores to obtain replacements. Lowe’s had only a single metallic container available - all the rest were plastic and he was told by the manager that they were supplied by Blitz. Examining these containers, in various sizes, each one did have lettering which identified the plastic as HDPE.
Stress cracking is a very well-known phenomenon which, to my knowledge, occurs only with HDPE. It is related to the semi-crystalline structure of HDPE, and occurs at the interface between microscopic crystal boundaries. It’s very treacherous since it occurs with a tensile force on the plastic which causes far less than the ‘yield stress’ which will reproducibly cause stretching and failure on bench testing of strength. To cause this cracking, however, the tensile force must be applied for a long time. (In the case of my containers, it required about 3 years!) Typically it will take place where there is a ‘stress riser’ such as at a parting line which results from the molding process. It was at a parting line (along the inside of the handle) that failure occurred in the 3 of my containers which failed.
Very unfortunately, it is extremely challenging - perhaps totally impossible - to evaluate products molded of HDPE for the possibility of delayed stress failure. This is because of the highly variable time required for failure, the variable effects of stress, the variable effects of storage conditions (temperature especially), and the variable effects of small differences in molding especially at a parting line where tool wear will result in changes over time. Further, depending on the molding process, there can be built-in residual stress which will result in eventual stress cracking without any additional stress being applied due to the weight of what is being stored (the weight of 5 gallons of gasoline is about 30 pounds).
Following this container failure, the caller accessed the CPSC database, looking to see whether there are other reports of similar failures. In doing this, he found Report No. 20121018-70583-2147462751. This report describes failure of a Blitz fuel container (described as ‘splitting’) which occurred in 2012. It reportedly occurred 3 years after its purchase. Model number of the container was [REDACTED].
Gasoline will not attack HDPE. And, HDPE is inexpensive compared to many other plastics which could be used to store gasoline. However, because of its liability for stress-cracking. it should never be considered to be an appropriate or safe material for containers used to store gasoline or other hazardous liquids.
It seems imperative, given the mission of the CPSC, to advise the public of the extreme danger of storing gasoline in containers molded of HDPE. Consideration could perhaps be given to advising that very short-term storage is less dangerous, given the process by which stress-cracking occurs.
Obviously, there would be financial fall-out from such an action, but the possibility for tragic consequences from the use of such container would have to take strong priority. After talking with a local fire department official, it seems highly likely that there have indeed been a number of fires caused by such containers, without the cause being identifiable.
Feel free to contact me if you judge that there might be any further useful information which I could provide.
Very truly yours, [REDACTED]
- Model
- 5 Gallon 31733
- Bought from
- Home Depot or Lowe’s or Walmart, Pennsylvania
- Where
- Enola, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz U.S.A. Inc., made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 2, 2016, sent to the company Aug 29, 2016, published by CPSC Sep 13, 2016
The product, in the report: Plastic Gasoline Containers Purchase Date; September 2013
Caller has found a safety hazard with a 5 gallon plastic gasoline container manufactured by Blitz Manufacturing which is now out of business.
The caller states that over time when the gasoline expands the seam breaks apart allowing gasoline to leak out of them
He said he believes that these gas cans were manufactured of high density polyethylene which has a known propensity for stress cracking.
He is reporting this occurrence after this happened to the first of 4 containers in his garage he has retained all of the containers. mid July 2016.
He then went on a vacation and received a call from his neighbor August 2nd, 2016 who informed him that two additional containers identical to the first one had split and gasoline was spilled under his car in his garage from these containers.
He said this needs to be reported as a fire hazard because other consumers may also have these gas cans in their possession.
there are no injuries being reported
He cannot contact the manufacturer, they are no longer in business
This is an addendum to the report referenced above, related to a severe gasoline storage container hazard:
In approximately September, 2013 the caller purchased four 5-gallon plastic gasoline storage containers, manufactured by Blitz U.S.A. These were filled with automotive gasoline and stored in a sheltered location inside their garage.
On or about July 15 of this year, he began to notice an odor of gasoline in the garage. It turned out that one of the four containers had a split along the line where the mold opens in the molding process used in manufacture. He poured the remaining gasoline into another container and left the leaking container in an outside location, with its cap removed, so that any remaining gasoline could evaporate.
Then, on August 2, at which time they were away from home, he received a telephone call from a neighbor who had entered their garage. He reported that he had found a puddle of gasoline on the garage floor, over a fairly wide area -extending under the caller’s car and flowing into a floor drain. The source was not one - but two - of the remaining 5-gallon containers which had split open. Obviously they were extremely fortunate that this did not result in an explosion or fire.
The caller will now relate details about these storage containers. As it happens, he has a number of years’ experience in the design and manufacture of molded plastic parts used in medical instruments. This experience includes dealing with the phenomenon of stress-cracking of products molded from high density polyethylene (HDPE).
The containers are molded of red plastic which to the caller had the appearance of HDPE. However, he was not able to find anything on the container which identified the type of plastic. He was reassured by the Underwriters Laboratories symbol on the side, and the implication that the product was U.L. approved. The containers were manufactured by Blitz U.S.A. (which he understand went through bankruptcy several years ago - circa 2009 - because of product liability unrelated to failures of the molded container).
The caller is enclosing 5 photographs of the container that failed first:
Photo 1 - Shows the entire container, the manufacturer’s emblem, and the U.L. emblem
Photo 2 - Shows the lower handle area, with arrows indicating the location of the crack which caused leakage
Photo 3 -Shows one side of the container, with legend identifying the manufacturer as Blitz U.S.A. Inc., of Miami, OK. Also shown is the model number: 31733
Photo 4 -Shows the side opposite that of Photo 3 -the same side shown in Photo 1 but showing greater detail
Photo 5 -Shows the bottom of the container, with a pair of time stamps
The caller is retaining all 4 of the containers, should anyone have a need for further information which could be obtained by examining them.
Since these failures occurred, the caller has visited their local Lowe’s and Home Depot stores to obtain replacements. Lowe’s had only a single metallic container available - all the rest were plastic and he was told by the manager that they were supplied by Blitz. Examining these containers, in various sizes, each one did have lettering which identified the plastic as HDPE.
Stress cracking is a very well-known phenomenon which, to my knowledge, occurs only with HDPE. It is related to the semi-crystalline structure of HDPE, and occurs at the interface between microscopic crystal boundaries. It’s very treacherous since it occurs with a tensile force on the plastic which causes far less than the ‘yield stress’ which will reproducibly cause stretching and failure on bench testing of strength. To cause this cracking, however, the tensile force must be applied for a long time. (In the case of my containers, it required about 3 years!) Typically it will take place where there is a ‘stress riser’ such as at a parting line which results from the molding process. It was at a parting line (along the inside of the handle) that failure occurred in the 3 of my containers which failed.
Very unfortunately, it is extremely challenging - perhaps totally impossible - to evaluate products molded of HDPE for the possibility of delayed stress failure. This is because of the highly variable time required for failure, the variable effects of stress, the variable effects of storage conditions (temperature especially), and the variable effects of small differences in molding especially at a parting line where tool wear will result in changes over time. Further, depending on the molding process, there can be built-in residual stress which will result in eventual stress cracking without any additional stress being applied due to the weight of what is being stored (the weight of 5 gallons of gasoline is about 30 pounds).
Following this container failure, the caller accessed the CPSC database, looking to see whether there are other reports of similar failures. In doing this, he found Report No. 20121018-70583-2147462751. This report describes failure of a Blitz fuel container (described as ‘splitting’) which occurred in 2012. It reportedly occurred 3 years after its purchase. Model number of the container was [REDACTED].
Gasoline will not attack HDPE. And, HDPE is inexpensive compared to many other plastics which could be used to store gasoline. However, because of its liability for stress-cracking. it should never be considered to be an appropriate or safe material for containers used to store gasoline or other hazardous liquids.
It seems imperative, given the mission of the CPSC, to advise the public of the extreme danger of storing gasoline in containers molded of HDPE. Consideration could perhaps be given to advising that very short-term storage is less dangerous, given the process by which stress-cracking occurs.
Obviously, there would be financial fall-out from such an action, but the possibility for tragic consequences from the use of such container would have to take strong priority. After talking with a local fire department official, it seems highly likely that there have indeed been a number of fires caused by such containers, without the cause being identifiable.
Feel free to contact me if you judge that there might be any further useful information which I could provide.
Very truly yours, [REDACTED]
- Model
- 5 Gallon 31733
- Serial number
- unknown
- Bought from
- Home Depot or Lowe’s or Walmart, Pennsylvania
- Where
- Enola, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz U.S.A. Inc., made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Oct 13, 2015, sent to the company Oct 21, 2015, published by CPSC Nov 12, 2015
The product, in the report: 2+ gallon gasoline containter “EnviroFlo” Item # 80010, UPC 4459 80010
Problem associated with Blitz EnviroFlo gasoline container. UPC code 44549 80010. Container had been filled a relatively small number of times; probably no more than 20.
Gasoline can plastic nozzle failed. It developed a crack which was not readily visible. During routine fill operation, gasoline leaked from the crack and onto hot engine parts. Gasoline was readily vaporized.
- Model
- 2+ gallon gasoline containter “EnviroFlo”
- UPC
- 4459 80010
- Bought from
- Walmart, Missouri
- Bought
- Jul 1, 2013, about then
- Where
- Troy, Missouri: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 57, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Mar 27, 2015, sent to the company Apr 28, 2015, published by CPSC May 12, 2015
The product, in the report: Gasoline cans
I own two Blitz gasoline plastic containers and they each have a different nozzle on them. There is a flaw in the design in the nozzles that allows, in warm temps, the gas to explosively shoot out of them. Up to 20 plus feet and has sprayed myself and cars around me. Without warning, these cans will spray gasoline on everything and everyone around. Because I can show this flaw, could you please look into it. Note; it is like shaking up a soda, then open it. But this is gasoline.
- Model
- 1CXG
- Where
- Puyallup, Washington: Unspecified
- Who was involved
- Unspecified
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jun 9, 2014, sent to the company Jun 17, 2014, published by CPSC Jul 1, 2014
The product, in the report: Plastic gas can with self venting spout.
I bought three 5 gallon and one 1 gallon gas cans with the new vented nozzles at Lowes Home Improvement. All of the 5 gallon cans leak were the nozzle connects to the can if i don’t scew them on very tightly and the nut on one of the cans broke because I tightened it a little too much. All of these new style cans leak and spill more than any of the old style cans that I have ever owned and I have been using them for over 45 years now. They also build up pressure and suck inward while setting in the shed building up pressure and are very awkward to balance on the edge of the gas tank opening while trying to release the safety then gas splashes back at you while the nozzle sucks and releases gas. The worse experience I have had and the main reason why I am writing this is the incident that I had this past weekend. I have a really large property so when I weed eat I carry my [weed trimmer] and 1 gallon gas can around on my golf cart. When I got to the end of the driveway I stopped to refeul the [weed trimmer]. Evidently the gas can had built up pressure in it from the heat and traveling around on the golf cart. I inserted the can in the gast tank and pressed in the release on the gas can nozzle then the gas came out so fast and with so much pressure that it spewed back in my face and right eye! It was a good think that I had the golf cart to get back to the house and water hose to rinse out my eye. Also, I can’t imagine out come if the fumes would have egnited. I really hate these new style cans and I wish there was same way or somebody would have enough common since to see that the new ones are more of a danger than the old ones. Thank you.
- Model
- 1CXG
- Bought from
- Lowes Home Improvement
- Bought
- May 1, 2013
- Where
- Greensboro, North Carolina: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 55, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jun 4, 2014, sent to the company Jun 12, 2014, published by CPSC Jun 26, 2014
The product, in the report: 2 gal 8 oz red plastic gas can with EPA approved fuel delivery system for emission satndards
I used the Blitz 2CXG can for the first time today, trying to place gasoline in an automobile fuel tank. Because there was no breather hole the process emitted more fumes than it would have otherwise. It was cumbersome and some of the product ended up on the ground as well. I then placed the empty can in the back of my truck. I got home 15 mins later and was examining the fuel delivery system. I released the safety lock and figured that I should allow it to reset itself. Due to building up pressure while sitting in the back of my truck, when I pushed down on the fuel release, captured gas that was still in the nozzle, shot up into my face.
- Model
- 2CXG
- UPC
- 44549 85010
- Serial number
- IDK
- Bought from
- Friedman’s, California
- Bought
- May 22, 2014, about then
- Where
- Ukiah, California: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 65, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz gas can, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Sep 2, 2013, sent to the company Sep 10, 2013, published by CPSC Oct 1, 2013
The product, in the report: Five gallon gasoline storage container, Blitz 5-Gallon Enviro-Flo Gas Can
The two halves of a molded plastic Blitz 5-Gallon Enviro-Flo Gas Can started to separate allowing gasoline to escape. The container was a little less than a year old and had not been mistreated in any fashion. Inspection of the joint on it and another container bought at the same time showed a re-entrant angle at the sealed joint that was improperly made. Fortunately the initial separation was small and at the top handle so that the container could be emptied before significant spillage.
- Bought from
- Walmart, North Carolina
- Bought
- May 16, 2012, about then
- Where
- Durham, United States: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 70, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made May 29, 2013, sent to the company Jun 6, 2013, published by CPSC Jun 20, 2013
The product, in the report: Blitz Model 5CXG 5 gallon plastic gas can
On or about 5/15/13, I filled a Blitz U.S.A. Inc. 5 gallon plastic gas can with approximately 4.9 gallons of regular unleaded ethanol-free gasoline, added approximately 60 ml of “[REDACTED]” Fuel Stabilizer and stored the container on a bare section of ground approximately 8 feet from my house. On 5/25/13, I discovered that subject container had a crack across the top and had leaked some of the fuel. The contents were emptied into one of the fuel tanks of my zero-turn mower and the can was returned to Lowe’s for credit. The maximum daytime temperatures during that time in Louisiana were in the mi to upper 80s (about 87 degrees F), however, the can was stored in an area that receives direct sunlight until 5 or 4 o’clock in the afternoon. Subject fuel can was purchased this year to replace a much older can that had developed a small crack and a slight fuel seepage. Had this failure occurred in my wife’s mini-van while evacuating after a hurricane, such as Katrina, it could have caused a fire.
- Model
- 5CXG
- Bought from
- Lowe’s
- Bought
- May 1, 2013, about then
- Where
- Folsom, Louisiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 70, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Death Made May 15, 2013, sent to the company May 24, 2013, published by CPSC Jun 17, 2013
The product, in the report: 1 GALLON RED “BLITZ” PLASTIC GAS CAN TO BE USED FOR THE PURPOSE OF STORING GASOLINE UPDATED June 12, ‘13: 1 gallon 4 oz jerrycan
Fatal Severe Thermal Trauma of 2 year old Minor Child when Blitz USA Plastic Gas Can allowed highly volatile gasoline to escape the Blitz Plastic Gas Can and ignite causing the death of Minor Child [REDACTED].
- Bought from
- KNECHT’S AUTO PARTS
- Bought
- Aug 1, 2008, about then
- Where
- ROSEBURG, Oregon: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 2, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Client, Patient, Student, Etc. (professional relationship)
- As this report names them
- Brand BLITZ USA, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
-
No one hurt Made May 13, 2013, sent to the company May 29, 2013, published by CPSC Jun 12, 2013
The product, in the report: 2 Gallon Blitz Plastic gasoline can EPA code: 8BLZPP2AABA1
The consumer stated that he had a 2 gallon gas can on the truck for approximately 5 hours expose to the sun. The consumer stated that the gas can build up pressure and it blew the spout off the can. The consumer stated that the spout landed approximately 50’ away from the truck. He stated that the gas can tip over and the gas spilled all over the back of his truck.
The consumer stated that no one was injured. He stated that he believes this product poses a safety hazard since it does not have a vent. The consumer stated that he believes that this product should be investigated do to the safety hazard that it poses.
- Model
- 2CXG
- UPC
- Unknown
- Serial number
- Unknown
- Bought from
- Tractor Supply Company, Ohio
- Bought
- May 1, 2012, about then
- Where
- Defiance, Ohio: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Emergency room Made May 8, 2013, sent to the company Jun 3, 2013, published by CPSC Jun 17, 2013
The product, in the report: 5 gallon gas can safety valves
Caller is reporting safety valve on five gallon gas can, she was using while cutting grass for her mother.
5 Gallon Gas Can made in U.S.A with safety valve on top that should let air out of the gas can.
Caller was preparing to pour gas but pressed on the safety valve to let the air out first as it sat level, however when she pushed the valve to let air out for safety as she has done so many times before but this time the air and gas shot up like a volcano as high five feet into the air and came back down into the caller’s face and eyes. She had to bend just a bit to press the safety valve and said it would have been worse if she had the gas can higher instead of bending over herself.
Caller was taken to Bayou Clinic by neighbors where she was stripped completely and pushed into a shower while solution put into her eyes then given clothes to wear in the ambulance that was called by Bayou Clinis to escort caller to Providence Hospital, where they dignosed the eye damage as Chemical Conjunctivitis, prescribed [REDACTED] Cream to releave her pain and discomfort, cream for her face that was actually reddened due to gasoline contact.
The major problem with the callers eyes with the left eye being the worst, she has an appointment with an eye specialist to be examined for any permanent damage.
She has not contacted the manufacturer but will contact them once she has the contact information.
UPDATE: I have called every number that has been given to me, and all numbers are not working, even the doctor tried. I do not want this to happen to anyone else, have cut grass as long as I remember.
- Model
- 5CXG
- Bought from
- not remembered
- Bought
- Sep 15, 2012, about then
- Where
- Coden, Alabama: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 55, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
-
No one hurt Made Nov 6, 2012, sent to the company Nov 29, 2012, published by CPSC Dec 13, 2012
The product, in the report: 2.5 gallon plastic gasoline container.
I bought 2.5 gallon plastic gasoline cans for the first time in years due to the storm Sandy. These cans come with a safety spout that I found nearly impossible to use. To open the spout, you are supposed to push in and turn. I couldn’t get the spout positioned correctly so the gasoline would flow. In fact, in all the cans I used, approximately 6, only one worked properly. The result was that I found myself and the others using the cans removing the spout and trying to pour directly into the generators. In some cases we did have a funnel, in others the gasoline spilled. Mentioning this to my 90 year old mother, who still mows her grass on a riding mower, she told me she can’t use the spout, so she takes it off and pours the gasoline in a glass jar and puts it in the mower with a funnel. This spout is less safe than the older, open spout version. It is less safe because it is complex and to hard to operate. People are quickly frustrated and remove it, increasing the chances of spillage and fire. I plan to remove them and replace them with an open spout.
[REDACTED] Professional Engineer
- Model
- 50810
- UPC
- 4454950810
- Serial number
- Don’t know
- Bought from
- Home Depot, Massachusetts
- Bought
- Oct 2, 2012
- Where
- Belmar, New Jersey: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 65, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz Self Venting Spout, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
Emergency room Made Oct 23, 2012, sent to the company Oct 31, 2012, published by CPSC Nov 15, 2012
The product, in the report: Blitz 1+Hand E-Flo 1 gallon gas can. Red with a grey pour spout and black spout release tab/slide bar.
use of Blitz 1 gallon gas can model 1+hand E flo Item # 85005. I was using the gan to refill a chain saw when I had to release the fluid lock with both hands. Once I released the lock and slid the bar down a rush of gasoline squirted out of the can into my face. I was extremely fortunate that I was wearing goggles at the time and prevented any direct contact with my eyes. I still needed to go to the emergency room to have my eyes flushed for some contact but it was no where as severe as it could have been if not for the safety goggles. To be very honest if I was not using a chain saw there is a good chance that I may not have been using safety googles. I could have been wearing safety glasses or even very possible nothing to protect my face from a splash or eye impact. I have never heard of or even seen this happen with a gas can before. I personally believe that that the vapors built up rushed out causing a suction action pulling the gas out much like a whales spout. Please note that I was not wearing the goggles correctly at the time and that is a minor point in this compliant considering the unusual event of using a simple gas can.
- Model
- Item # 85005
- Bought from
- Lowes, Nebraska
- Bought
- Oct 20, 2012
- Where
- Bellevue, Nebraska: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 38, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
-
No one hurt Made Oct 18, 2012, sent to the company Oct 25, 2012, published by CPSC Nov 15, 2012
The product, in the report: Blitz fuel containers made in Miami, OK Model Number: 50833
Three year old Blitz 5 gallon Red Plastic gasoline container split open and dumped 4 of 5 gallons of gasoline on the ground. No injuries, and no fire. The container was just setting there sealed storing gasoline. It was Not filled past the FILL line. My opinion is the warn weather causes gasoline vapors to expand resulting in excess pressures on the aging plastic containers. 4 to 5 gallons of gasoline dumping out unexpected from a container bursting is very dangerous.
Blitz, Miami, Oklahoma, is aware of this defect as they replaced a container for me about a year ago. They are all about the same age and either the plastic deteriorated from the fuel or the plastic is of inadequate strength for the additional pressures of warm day expansion.
I did a search on the web for Blitz to contact them again about another container bursting apart, but I find the company is out of business from product liability law suits.
- Model
- 50833
- Bought from
- Tractor Supply
- Bought
- Oct 3, 2010, about then
- Where
- Carlton, Texas: Farm/
Ranch - Who was involved
- Age 58, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jul 21, 2012, sent to the company Aug 7, 2012, published by CPSC Aug 21, 2012
The product, in the report: Gas container
Blitz Enviro-Flo Plus Plastic Gas Container is so well sealed (in a poor attempt to comply with 2009 enviromental laws) that the 5 gallon container swells up tremendously and rolls onto its side when exposed to summer heat in my garage. These containers will do this regardless of whether they are full or empty. Obviously, having a full conatiner of gas laying on its side would be a significant fire/explosion risk if it began leaking.
I understand the need to better seal the containers to safeguard the environment, however, the container must be redesigned to absolutely prevent it from swelling into a ball shape and rolling over. A wider base; more substantial base molding; self-venting at some dangerous pressure.
The container should also be designed to relieve pressure automatically before the valve is opened - perhaps it could vent as a result of lifting the carry handle.
- Model
- 5 gallon
- Bought
- Jul 2, 2012
- Where
- Four Seasons, Missouri: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 61, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz Enviro-Flo, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jun 7, 2012, sent to the company Jun 15, 2012, published by CPSC Jun 29, 2012
The product, in the report: Blitz USA 5-Gallon Enviro-Flo Plus Gas Can
Blitz USA 5-Gallon Enviro-Flo Plus Gas Can is the worst gas can I have ever used. I have three. Two five gallon and one 2.5 gallon. All have the same faulty spout. All leak all the time. The five gallon containers are cumbersome to use. The spouts are just the right size to get stuck in the gas tank of a car. Pouring into a car ALWAYS results in spilling gasoline. If you are using one at night, use a flashlight so you see how much is spilling! The non-safety cans I have used in the past were much better. Now that the government has enforced making “better” tanks, we have this disaster that the company can state meets government standards. Who cares! The standard stinks! These cans are absolutely horrible. It is NOT possible to use won without spilling. The gas leaks through the mechanism, not at the can seal ot the flimsy spout. The lock mechanism has already broken on two of the three. That’s supposed to be a safety feature that didn’t work well anyway. At least now, with it broken, it’s a little easier to pour, still leaks like crazy. HORRIBLE.
- Model
- 81033
- Bought from
- Lowe’s
- Bought
- Aug 1, 2011, about then
- Where
- Uniontown, Ohio: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Unknown
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz USA, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jun 7, 2012, sent to the company Aug 15, 2012, published by CPSC Aug 29, 2012
The product, in the report: 5 gallon gasoline can
The consumer says he went to the gas station and filled the can with gasoline. he put the can on the back of his truck when he says the seam separated at the top and gas leaked from it.
He contacted the manufacturer who sent him an email stating they would like to view the can. The manufacturer however did not want to pay for shipping so one rep told him to keep the can.
- Model
- gasoline can
- Bought from
- Lowe’s
- Where
- Bright Waters, New York: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made May 18, 2012, sent to the company Jun 18, 2012, published by CPSC Jul 2, 2012
The product, in the report: Plastic container - gasoline container
The consumer stated that the gasoline container design is faulty. The spout on the container is not long enough which causes the gasoline to spill. In doing so he had lost half of the contents on the ground.
The consumer stated that he had attempted to use several other gas containers, which prove to be the same results. He feels that this design needs to be redesigned for the safety of consumers and to prevent spillage.
The consumer had not contacted the manufacturer as yet.
The consumer is concerned that gas container is faulty and unsafe and should be investigated.
- Model
- 900900
- UPC
- unknown
- Serial number
- 032511051
- Bought from
- BP Gas station, Ohio
- Where
- Dayton, Ohio: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz USA, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jan 7, 2012, sent to the company Jan 17, 2012, published by CPSC Jan 31, 2012
The product, in the report: BLitz gas can with the Enviro Flo spout
Blitz gas can with the Enviro Flo spout. This can has been used for less than two years. Due to the extremely dangerous design of the Enviro Flo spout the can cannot vent. Upon the increase of air temprature the can expands so big that it can not sit on the bottom of the can therefore it tips over. Then when the temprature cools back down the can collapses until the side have pulled together. After doing this expansion and contraction for a number of days the can develops a hole in the corners of the can causing the fuel to spill out onto the ground or in a trailer or vehicle. Although the design of the can may be protection for the enviroment from pollution of gas fumes there is far more pollution happening when the gas run out onto the ground and the possible fires and deaths from leaking fuel in a vehicle.
- Model
- 5CXG
- Bought from
- Western Power Sports
- Bought
- Jul 20, 2010, about then
- Where
- Holbrook, Idaho: Other
- Who was involved
- Age 56, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Nov 5, 2011, sent to the company Nov 15, 2011, published by CPSC Nov 30, 2011
The product, in the report: 5 gallon gas can
I live in an off-grid location and depend on gasoline generators for electric power. This requires me to buy gasoline in 5 gallon cans on a regular basis. Until several years ago, it was possible to buy different models at different stores. However, 3 or 4 years ago, all the stores in Hawaii phased out all but one model. The brand name is Blitz. This manufacturer now has almost a total monopoly on the sale of gas cans--at least in the Sate of Hawaii.
These red, plastic cans cost anywhere from about $15 to $25, and it has annoyed me that they last only about 6 months before they develop pin-hole leaks. In fact, it is more than annoying, it is dangerous. I have often come home to find that a recently purchased can has leaked gasoline all over the bed of my pick-up truck because the leak was too small to notice at the gas station. I have also gone into my storage shed on numerous occasions to find that relatively new cans have slowly leaked onto the floor of my shed. This has degraded the bed of my truck and the floor of my shed, but the larger issue is that of the fire hazard.
I generally save the old cans with leaks until I have 5 or 6 of them that have all of the fuel gone from them and then take them to the local dump. But today, I came home to find that a can I had just filled, and had only been used several times previously, was spurting gasoline all over my pick-up bed again on the 10 mile trip home. The last time I filled up the cans, I was eating in a restaurant before going home when the waitress pointed out the window at liquid dripping out of the back of my truck. Gasoline!
I have learned to check the cans regularly--especially when I fill them and before putting them in my shed--but these pin hole leaks can develop at any time. I thought that it must be small stones or cinders that were causing the problem when the cans were weighted down with gasoline, so I put a plywood sheet in the bed of my truck and took care to sweep it clean of all debrise before loading the cans.
Today, after discovering a virtually new can had sprung a leak in my truck, I emptied it into another can and then pulled all the discarded cans I still had out to inspect them. In every case the small pin holes were easy to identify by looking at the bottom of the cans or holding them up to the daylight and looking through the fill hole to see the bottom of the can from the inside. And in every case, the holes were exactly the same. They were not jagged or ragged like a stone would produce. They were all about the size of a pin head or smaller and they were all perfectly round almost like they had been stamped out. And they were not all on the very bottom of the can where a stone or bit of metal might puncture a hole. Some of them were several centimeters above the bottom of the can.
It seems obvious that these cans are either purposely designed to spring leaks in order to shorten their useful life and sell more cans--which would be dangerous and unethical, given that they are designed solely for storing and transporting highly flamable gasoline. Or they are poorly manufactured with plastic walls that are too thin to be safe and perhaps have small air bubbles in them--which could maybe somehow explain the consistently and perfectly round holes that develop after a short time--which is, none-the-less, dangerous.
I believe that some testing of these cans should be done to confirm my conclusions and suspicions. There must be many other people out there with similar experiences. I myself have gone through about twenty cans in just a few years time. I can’t say what’s available in other states but I would guess that since all the big box stores sell exactly the same model that the monopoly probably exists in the whole country. I believe the manufacturer must be aware of this flaw (if not outright causing it) and should be held accountable to correct it. This is not only a consumer rip-off but a dangerous problem.
- Model
- ENVIRO>FLO, 81033
- UPC
- 0 44549 81033 1
- Bought from
- Home Depot
- Bought
- Jul 28, 2011, about then
- Where
- Pahoa, Hawaii: Farm/
Ranch - Who was involved
- Age 63, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Aug 2, 2011, published by CPSC Sep 15, 2011
The product, in the report: spou ton a plastic gasoline container (two gallon)
While attempting to pour gasoline from the plastic gasoline container to a lawnmower the gasoline come out with such force and shot all into the consumers face.
The consumer indicated that he believes the failure occurred due to there not being an air vent on the container which causes the air to became trapped in the sprout and or container.
He also indicated that if he had not been wearing glasses the gasoline could have possibly shot directly into his eyes.
The consumer stated that they way the product is designed is an extreme safety hazard and he has followed all the safety instructions that came with the product so the failure that occurred was not due to misuse.
He has not contacted the firm as of yet but indicated that he would. He has agreed to discontinue the use of the spout on the container but may use the container for storage of gasoline.
- Bought from
- SImson Gasoline Station, Minnesota
- Bought
- Feb 15, 2011, about then
- Where
- Warren, Minnesota: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made Jun 16, 2011, published by CPSC Jul 11, 2011
The product, in the report: Blitz Plastic 2 Gal. Gasoline Can Red Enviro-Flo Plus Model= 81010 UPC= 044549810102 Potentially very dangerous to use. I’ve has several close calls with the possibility of gasoline being sprayed on my clothing and in my face along with gasoline being sprayed onto a hot gasoline motor like a lawn mower, snow blower, and tiller.
RE:: Blitz Mfg. Blitz Gas Can Enviro-flo plus Model= 81010 UPC= 044549810102 “ AND ALL OTHERS WITH THIS DESIGN “
These plastic gasoline cans have NO vent or pressure relief so they swell and expand causing several problems;
1. The bottom the plastic can will push out and round itself making it extremely unstable and wobbly. 2. If all of the gasoline does not return into the gas can after being used some will remain in the nozzle and if the gasoline can is pressurized from sitting it has blown out in your face and onto a hot motor. 3. This gas can is suppose to be “environmentally friendly” yet I have spilled more gasoline by using it in the past 1.5 years than I have in the previous 40+ years of using regular gas cans. 4. And that doesn’t even include the fact that you need 3 hands to use it. Great if you’re a martian !!!
The company should be ashamed of itself producing such a dangerous, awkward to use, piece of junk.
- Model
- Blitz Model 81010
- UPC
- 044549810102
- Bought from
- Lowes, Pennsylvania
- Bought
- Jul 10, 2010
- Where
- Trafford, Pennsylvania: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 65, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz Mfg., made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
First aid Made May 30, 2011, published by CPSC Jun 21, 2011
The product, in the report: 1+ Enviro-Flo Gas Can™ Unit Dimensions: 9.50“ x 5.88“ x 7.625” 1 gallon red Gas can with 081410111 on spout handle epa code 8BLZPP2AABA1 CARB CODE G-07-067
My husband was trying to refill his Chain saw using the new Blitz 1+ Enviro-Flo Gas Can™s when it spewed gas into his face. There were no sign’s of it being under pressure. Since there is no vent on these cans we can’t release any pressure. Its very difficult to get the lid to come off as well. This is a very dangerous product.
- Model
- Blitz USA 1 Gallon 4 oz
- UPC
- 0 44549 80005 9
- Bought from
- Auto Zone, Indiana
- Bought
- Mar 27, 2011, about then
- Where
- FRANKLIN, Indiana: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 34, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Spouse
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz USA, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
No one hurt Made May 24, 2011, published by CPSC Jul 28, 2011
The product, in the report: Enviro Flow Blitz Gas Can
Consumer wanted to report that his Blitz cans are potentially hazardous. Consumer stated that the gas can are 5 gallons and plastic. The compressor valve is spring loaded The consumer stated that the issue with the gas can is when a person tries to depress the valve to fill up the lawn mower with gasoline, the gasoline flows out from underneath the valve handle and spills. This happened to the consumer twice with two different identical gas cans. In the first instance the gas can spill gasoline all over the consumer’s leg and on a hot lawn mower. The second incident happened a couple weeks later with another identical gas can. The consumer feels that a person could go up in flames if this problem persists. The consumer was not injured during the incident but still notices a potential danger in this issue. The consumer has yet to call the manufacturer but did take the product back to the Wal Mart yesterday for a refund. The consumer stated that there was no fire or flames. The consumer cannot recall the date of the incident. The consumer felt it was imperative to report this issue to the CPSC.
- Bought from
- Wal Mart, Alabama
- Bought
- Jan 20, 2011, about then
- Where
- Helena, Alabama: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 45, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Blitz, made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
-
No one hurt Made May 18, 2011, published by CPSC Jun 10, 2011
The product, in the report: BLITZ 5-GAL GASOLINE TANK, MODEL 5CXG Conforming to EPA Code 8BLZPP2AABA1
I am writing to explain why I think the EPA has created an large environmental hazard in their attempt to eliminate a relatively minor one.
Specifically I am writing about the BLITZ 5-GAL GASOLINE TANK, MODEL 5CXG.
A little background… I am 68 years of age and in good health, except for a bad back. I am a homeowner who has used 2 and 3 gallon red gas cans since I was a boy to store gasoline for lawn mowers and yard tools in the summer, and for snow blowers in the winter. Sure, I might have spilled a few drops in my time, but no more, and I never blamed it on the tanks.
Last fall (2010) I went to buy new gas tanks, and all I could buy were the new ones which I was told “met the new EPA standards.” They cost at least twice as much as the old ones, but I want to protect the environment, and I did not complain.
However, when I went to use the new tank on our snowblower, I spilled more gas than ever in my life! It was nighttime, at the end of a blizzard with a foot of snow around me, when the snowblower ran out of gas. I got out the new tank to pour some gas, but nothing happened. After some futzing around outside, in the dark freezing night with my gloves off, I took the tank into the lighted garage to try to figure out how it worked. I could not get it to work. I spilled quite a bit trying, but it only dribbled out. Fortunately my neighbor had some gas in an old, user-friendly tank and I got through the job. I got through the winter by pouring from the 5-gallon EPA tank into an old usable 2-gallon tank, and then using the old one when needed in action.
This spring I had similar problems in daylight when I tried to use the EPA approved tank on my lawnmower. I could see how I had to hold the can upright, hold back a locking lever, and depress a handle, and then I could lift the heavy tank (with my 3rd arm) and get the gas to dribble out at a barely acceptable rate (much slower than the old vented tanks.) By the time it was finished, I had probably spilled about a half a pint of gas, and my back was killing me.
Today, I decided to pour the remaining 3 gallons into my car’s gas tank, which is at least waist high, meaning I did not have to lean over. It took a long time (maybe 3 minutes) to release the gas, and I never could get the last pint out of the can. I had the tube fully inserted into my car’s gas tank, but it was leaking from the top of the tube, down the finish of my brand new car, onto the floor of my garage. Probably lost about a pint. As I write, my garage is now filled with gas fumes, and I am leaving the door open so we don’t have an explosion.
I have had it! This is an abomination, probably brought to us by the bureaucratic cousins of the designers of hard-to-open drug bottles! I can’t believe anyone ever tried this idea under real conditions before mandating it; it must have been done from behind a desk.
I don’t blame the manufacturer. I blame the people who impose these ridiculous rules. I am writing to express my own frustration, which must be also held by thousands of other victims of this dumb situation. I am also concerned about the environment, and this is FAR MORE POLLUTING than any gas tanks I have every used in 6 decades.
I hope this feedback gets passed on to someone who will take us back to a cleaner, cheaper, simpler, and more useable gas can.
Sincerely, [REDACTED] Needham, MA
- Bought from
- Harvy’s Hardware (I think), Massachusetts
- Bought
- Oct 9, 2010, about then
- Where
- Needham, Massachusetts: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 68, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand BLITZ 5-GAL GASOLINE TANK, MODEL 5CXG., made or sold by Blitz U.S.A.
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Incident, No Injury
CPSC’s disclaimer
Disclaimer: CPSC does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of the Publicly Available Consumer Product Safety Information Database on SaferProducts.gov, particularly with respect to information submitted by people outside of CPSC.
Word for word, from the disclaimer in CPSC’s export.
Sources
Sources
-
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, SaferProducts.gov public database export.
Released Oct 25, 2026 and checked Oct 25, 2026. Updated daily. Public domain (U.S. Government work). CPSC asks to be credited, and that no endorsement be implied.
Reports of harm are from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), on SaferProducts.gov. CPSC does not endorse Hearth Record.