Florida contaminated gas: What stations are impacted by the ‘stop sale order’
Posted on August 29, 2023 at 1:45PM
Citgo notified state authorities that a staff member mistakenly transferred diesel fuel into the tanks designated for regular gasoline. According to officials, if you refueled your vehicle on Saturday after 10 a.m., there is a possibility that you could be impacted.
Tampa, Florida - A few gas stations in the Bay Area are currently unable to sell gasoline due to an issue caused by human mistake at the Port of Tampa Bay. This mistake resulted in a significant fuel contamination problem affecting the Citgo fueled gas stations, as disclosed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
The FDACS has stated that there is a high chance of diesel fuel contamination in any fuel bought from impacted stations between 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 26 and Sunday, August 27.
Gasoline and diesel fuel that is tainted can harm engines or cause issues with how they function. Gas stations that have been affected have been instructed to halt the sale of fuel until the contaminated supply is replaced and their storage tanks are thoroughly cleaned. Only after the stations are deemed safe or have taken the necessary steps to fix the problem, will the fuel be available for purchase again.
As of Tuesday afternoon, there are still 17 stations that are not allowed to sell their products until they receive confirmation from the laboratory.
FDACS has examined and resolved issues in eight stations, ensuring they meet all requirements for selling fuel.
Following urgent inspections and assessments conducted by FDACS, it has been concluded that six fuel stations were exempted from receiving the tainted fuel delivery.
Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson expressed his gratitude towards the diligent individuals at FDACS who promptly and comprehensively addressed this issue. Having such a calamitous mistake occur for consumers is never desirable, especially during a period when Florida residents are evacuating due to a potentially hazardous storm. However, I strongly believe that our department managed to reduce the severity of the situation that could have been even more dire. We are fully prepared to aid those whose vehicles and machinery were affected by the tainted fuel.
Fixing Bad Gas: Essential Steps
If you recently bought fuel at any of these places on or after August 26 and are worried about potential harm to your vehicle, you have the option to begin a claim using the Citgo Good Gas Guarantee program by following this link.
Customers also have the option to register their grievances by reaching out to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer services via phone at 1-800-HELP-FLA or through the website www.fdacs.gov.
Due to the occurrence of Hurricane Idalia, the operation of Call Centers will be suspended on Wednesday.
