California fire officials announced a mandatory removal of auto-flow gas latches that keep the gas flowing after releasing the pump handle. Latches have been sticking in the open position, leaving them to overflow and cause serious injuries or pose fire dangers.

The pumps affected are made by Vapor System Technologies and are marked with the label VST. That includes 3,000 gas stations — about a third of the pumps across California.

Gas station operators had until October to remove the latches. Replacement latches are being made to fix the problem.

Gas station operators are also advised to post signs telling people that the clips have been removed from the gas handles and warning them to not wedge anything in the handle to keep the gas flowing.

SOURCE: http://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local-beat/Auto-Flow-Gas-Levers-Must-Be-Removed-101383859.html