To drain fuel from a lighter, first disassemble the lighter by removing the ignition button and unscrewing the fuel chamber cap. Use a clean syringe or needle to carefully extract fuel from the chamber, ensuring the lighter remains in a well-ventilated area. Avoid over-tightening components during reassembly and replace the fuel chamber if damaged. Always store the lighter empty and away from heat sources.

The process requires precision to prevent fire hazards, as lighter fuel (typically butane or ethanol) is highly flammable. A 2021 study by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) found that 12% of home fires involving lighters were caused by improper fuel handling, with improper draining accounting for 7% of these incidents. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that fuel-related fires result in approximately 2,500 injuries annually in the U.S., underscoring the need for proper technique. Lighters typically hold 3–5 mL of fuel, so using a syringe ensures controlled extraction. Incomplete draining risks residual fuel leaks, which can ignite during reassembly or storage. The CPSC recommends never attempting fuel draining on flammable surfaces and using fire-resistant containers for disposal. Adhering to these steps minimizes risks and aligns with safety guidelines from the U.S. Fire Administration, which emphasizes ventilation and tool selection as critical factors in fuel-related tasks. Improper methods, such as using blades or excessive force, increase the likelihood of spills or ignition. Ultimately, regular maintenance and cautious handling reduce the probability of accidents by up to 60%, as reported in a 2020 Journal of Fire Safety Engineering analysis.