CLEVELAND -- Pumping gas is so common that many people don't even think twice about it.

NewsChannel5 Troubleshooter Chris Caswell reported that there is a warning sweeping the nation about static-electricity fires at gas pumps.

When the weather is dry, the conditions are perfect to produce static, and this can produce fires at the pump.

There are a plethora of attention-grabbing signs at most pumps, including ones saying "Free gas," "Please pay first." But some people may miss the most important sticker--a warning telling people what not to do at the pump.

"You shouldn't light a cigarette, (and you) shouldn't strike a match," said consumer Gus Harrison.

Driver Debbie Ratliff never knew of the danger of static electricity until there were flames when she pulled the nozzle from her car.

Caswell reported that the problem starts when people get into their cars while pumping gas, because clothes may rub against the seat and cause static electricity. Then, when the driver gets back out, he or she is carrying that static to the pump, and the static could come in contact with gas vapors.

"Whenever there's movement or contact between two similar types of materials, the potential for static accumulation is there," said Cleveland Fire Department Capt. Mark Scott.

Scott said drivers should put plastic gas containers on the ground when filling so static will discharge safely. Also, he said people should touch the metal on the outside of their car as soon as they exit the vehicle. This will discharge the static before they pump gas.

Another safety tip when pumping gas is to turn off cell phones and leave them in the car. Also, if using automatic shut-off, drivers shouldn't leave the pump.