Do not touch the vehicle and the refueling nozzle simultaneously. Once you grasp the refueling nozzle, you are grounded through it. Touching the vehicle at this point creates an open pathway between the nozzle and the vehicle that may cause a static discharge. A balanced ground between the nozzle and the vehicle is the ground itself. A human body has a significant difference in mass than the vehicle and the plunger pump, and may represent a serious imbalance in the grounding of electrical currents.
Once the nozzle is in the refueling neck, ensure that the metal of the nozzle is contacting the refueling neck, and ensure the vapor collection boot is slightly compressed on the refueling neck. This keeps the electrical pathway for any static discharges intact, and reduces the amount of fuel vapors escaping.
At this point, if you break contact with the fuel nozzle, you will need to re-establish the contact away from the nozzle. Have your feet planted where you will be standing to remove the nozzle. Touch the hose towards the pump to discharge any static build up. Then, without shifting your feet, regain control of the delivery valve nozzle. From this point, you are safely grounded and able to remove the nozzle from the vehicle and replace it on the pump. The tendency to lean against the car and hold onto the refueling nozzle should be avoided. Again, the balances of electrical currents are critical in reducing the chances of a fuel fire. Consider the refueling time to be a moment for some impromptu exercise, such as isometrics or standing on one’s toes. A good stretch makes for a more alert driver.
Do not get back into your car until the refueling nozzle is placed back on the pump and the fuel cap is secured. The action of sliding into and out of the vehicle generates static electricity. It also limits any escape from a potential fuel fire. If there is a spill or nozzle problem, you may be stepping into a pool of raw gasoline, and the connection between your feet and the ground could be the spark that ignites the fuel.