When you exit a car and the humidity is low, you often experience a shock from static electricity created by sliding across the seat. How can you discharge yourself without experiencing a painful shock? Why is it dangerous to get back into your car while fueling your car?

Static electricity is the build-up of an electrical charge on the surface of an object. It occurs when two materials are rubbed against each other, causing electrons to be transferred from one material to the other. When you slide across the seat of your car, electrons are transferred between your body and the car seat, creating a difference in charge. When you then touch a grounded object, like a doorknob, the charge is equalized, resulting in a shock.

To prevent a painful shock from static electricity after exiting a car, you can follow these steps: 1. Open the car door and ensure that you're ready to exit the vehicle. 2. Before completely leaving the seat, touch a grounded metal part of the car such as the door handle or metal frame to discharge any built-up static electricity. 3. Keep your hand in contact with the metal part while stepping out of the vehicle. This will allow any charge to flow continuously to the ground rather than discharging as a sudden shock. 4. Release the metal part after you are out of the car and fully grounded. By following these steps, you can discharge any static electricity buildup gradually and safely, avoiding the painful shock.

Static electricity is dangerous while refueling a car, as a spark from static discharge can ignite the highly flammable gasoline fumes. When you're refueling, getting back into the car and sliding across the seat can cause a build-up of static electricity. As you exit the car again and touch the metal fuel nozzle, a spark can be generated, creating a fire or explosion hazard. It is recommended to stay outside your vehicle while refueling to minimize this risk. If you must re-enter your car during the refueling process, discharge any static electricity before touching the fuel nozzle by touching a grounded metal part of the car while exiting the vehicle.