December 23, 2025 – A consumer recently reported a concerning incident involving a Briggs & Stratton “Press’n Pour” gasoline container, model GB351SL, which allegedly leaked gasoline during use, creating a flash fire risk. The incident highlights potential safety flaws in the product’s design, particularly when dispensing the final quarter of its contents.
Product Details
Incident Overview
On December 4, 2025, a consumer experienced a serious safety concern while attempting to fill a snowblower with gasoline using a Briggs & Stratton “Press’n Pour” gasoline container, model GB351SL. The consumer reported that the can’s dispenser began leaking gasoline from the pushbutton mechanism when approximately the last quarter of the fuel remained. The leak occurred despite the can being held at an angle consistent with the manufacturer’s instructions and product photos.
The user, wearing gloves, initially noticed an unusually strong smell of gasoline before visually confirming the leak. Shortly after walking away from the snowblower, which was being filled, the leaked gasoline flashed, though it did not ignite into a sustained fire. The consumer was able to secure the cap, preventing further incident. The snowblower was confirmed to be in good working condition with all covers and safeties intact. The consumer emphasized that if they had not detected the strong odor and noticed the leak, they would have been standing directly over the volatile fuel during the flash.
Safety Concerns
This incident points to several significant safety concerns associated with the Briggs & Stratton GB351SL “Press’n Pour” gasoline container:
- Immediate Fire and Explosion Hazard: Gasoline is highly flammable, and leaks, especially in proximity to hot engines or ignition sources like a running or recently used snowblower, pose an immediate and severe risk of fire or explosion. A flash, as described, is a precursor to a sustained fire and can cause severe burns, property damage, and potentially fatal injuries.
- Chemical Exposure and Burns: Direct contact with gasoline can cause skin irritation, chemical burns, and inhalation hazards. A leaking dispenser increases the likelihood of such exposure.
- Property Damage: A gasoline fire can quickly spread, leading to extensive damage to equipment (like snowblowers), surrounding structures, and personal property.
- Unforeseen Leaks: The report indicates the leak occurred from the pushbutton when dispensing the final portion of fuel, at an angle consistent with normal use. This suggests a potential design flaw that could catch users unaware, especially those accustomed to the product’s initial reliable performance.
- Who Might Be Affected: Anyone using this specific model of gasoline can, particularly for refueling outdoor power equipment like snowblowers, lawnmowers, or generators, is at risk. This includes homeowners, landscapers, and anyone handling gasoline.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who own or use the Briggs & Stratton GB351SL “Press’n Pour” gasoline container should take immediate precautions:
- Stop Use Immediately: If you experience any leaking from the dispenser, especially from the pushbutton mechanism, stop using the product immediately.
- Inspect Your Product: Check your gasoline can for the brand “Briggs & Stratton” or “Garage Boss” and the model number GB351SL.
- Safe Storage: If you must store the product, ensure it is in a well-ventilated area, away from any ignition sources, and in an upright position to minimize potential leaks. Do not store gasoline indoors or near living spaces.
- Exercise Extreme Caution: When handling gasoline, always do so in a well-ventilated outdoor area, away from sparks, open flames, or hot surfaces. Wear appropriate protective gear, such as chemical-resistant gloves.
- Report Incidents: If you have experienced a similar incident or have concerns about this product, report it to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at www.cpsc.gov. Providing detailed information helps authorities track product safety issues.
Manufacturer’s Response
The manufacturer, TPG Plastics LLC, has acknowledged the incident report with a “Yes” response, indicating they have received and are aware of the reported issue. Details regarding their specific plan of action or further investigation are not available at this time.
Legal Help Available
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or suffered property damage due to a product malfunction, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced product liability attorneys at Farzan Law understand the complexities of defective product cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in product liability cases involving defective appliances, automotive defects, medical devices, and consumer products. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Note: This information is based on incident reports provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. If you find information that is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can correct the post to reflect accurate information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. This article is based on publicly available incident reports. The incidents mentioned have not necessarily been independently verified or adjudicated.