Is your gas hot water heater safe?  There's a good chance it is.  But there is a danger the unit could produce what is known as a 'flashback fire.'

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has warned that if gasoline or other flammables are used too close to the water heater, fumes can ignite upon reaching the pilot light, producing a potentially violent flashback and a raging fire.

The risk is further complicated by the fact that most gas hot water heaters are located in garages or sheds where flammables are often kept.

CPSC receives reports of about 800 flashback fires per year with an average of fives deaths and about 130 injuries.

New hot water heaters are required to have a flame arrestor, which will trap and burn vapors inside the heaters while protecting against flashbacks.

It is NOT necessary to purchase a new hot water heater to stay safe.  Flammables should never be stored or used where the vapors may ignite.

If you do decide to purchase a new hot water heater, look for those which have this new flame arrestor.  It would also be a great opportunity to invest in an energy efficient model with the Energy Star logo.