Danger: Explosive Pumps

01 May 06

HOPE, Arkansas - Hyde R Cabian injured by pump malfunction at local Triathlon station. He is being held for observation at Medical Park Hospital.

The board of weights and measures assures accuracy on a yearly basis. But the safety latch, designed to control the flow of gasoline, is not on scheduled maintenance.

After swiping his credit card to refuel, Mr. Cabian set the auto-fill latch and went inside to shop. The spicket fell out of the vehicle and covered him with gasoline.

The fumes caused him to briefly lose consciousness. Due to the quick thinking of the attendant, he was moved to safety.

A spokeswoman for the company says that Triathlon will cover any medical expenses accrued as a result of the incident. And they will check all pumps nationwide and repair them if necessary by 01 June 06.

Though appreciative of the company’s support Mr. Cabian is disappointed with the local station. The $45 bill remains. The manager of the station refuses to refund the cost of the gasoline since he did receive it.

City council had scheduled a meeting Friday to consider legislation limiting the liability of gasoline companies. That meeting has been postponed indefinitely. Instead council will honor the clerk for bravery by presenting her with a key to the City.