Scepter 5 Gallon Ameri-Can review: a compliant can for storing generator fuel

This is a research-based review, based on manufacturer specs and published data. We do not test products. Product details come from Scepter's page for the 5 Gallon Ameri-Can Rear Handle Gasoline Can (product FG4G571), checked November 1, 2026; storage rules come from Ready.gov and local fire and building code officials.

A generator is only as useful as the fuel beside it. In a widespread outage, gas stations need power to pump, so most households run on whatever they stored before the storm. That makes the fuel container a safety device: it holds a flammable liquid near your home for months at a time.

Scepter lists this can for exactly that use, describing it as perfect for hurricane and other emergency prep. The rear-handle version replaces Scepter's original 5 Gallon Ameri-Can (FG4G511), which Scepter says is being phased out.

Who should buy it

• Owners of gasoline or dual-fuel generators who need a few days of stored fuel.
• Households with children: Scepter describes the spout as child-safe and spill-proof.
• Anyone filling a generator tank at shoulder height: the rear handle supports the can while pouring.

Who should skip it

• Propane-only generator owners, who store fuel in cylinders instead.
• Anyone who wants a fast free-flowing pour. Scepter's spout opens only when pressed against the tank opening, by design.
• Diesel users. Scepter sells a yellow diesel version (FG4D571); keep fuels in their own color-coded cans.

Strengths

• Flame mitigation device. Scepter builds an FMD into the can as an added layer of protection.
• Auto shut-off. Scepter says the EasyFlo spout reduces emissions and closes automatically when you stop pouring.
• Child-safe locking. The spout stays locked until the black bar is pressed in.
• Stable shape. A wide base helps prevent tipping, per Scepter.
• Listed standards. Scepter lists CARB and EPA compliance and several ASTM fuel container standards.
• Rear handle. Added to this version for easier lifting and pouring.

Drawbacks

• Learning curve. The spout opens only when the bar hooks the tank edge and the can is pushed down. Practice with water before a storm.
• Weight when full. Scepter does not list a filled weight; five gallons of fuel is a two-hand lift.
• Small for big generators. A 9,500 W generator burns a full can in about 6 hours at half load (our arithmetic from Westinghouse figures).
• No ASIN confirmed. We could not confirm an Amazon listing for this exact product number, so our link searches Amazon for it; check that the listing says FG4G571 or rear handle.

How it compares

Scepter makes several current gas cans. The comparison below uses Scepter's own product pages, checked November 1, 2026.

Using it in a long outage

How many cans you need

Work it out from your generator's runtime figures. The Champion 3500W Dual Fuel lists 14 hours per 4.7 gallons at half load, about one can per 15 hours. The Westinghouse WGen9500DFc lists 8 hours per 6.6 gallons at half load, more than a can per shift. Multiply by the hours a day you will run and the days you plan for, then check your local fire code limit on stored gasoline before buying more cans.

Store it safely

• Use a detached shed or a shaded, ventilated outdoor spot away from doors, windows and ignition sources.
• Treat fresh gasoline with a stabilizer such as STA-BIL Storage when you fill the can, and write the date on it.
• Leave a little room for expansion; Gold Eagle advises filling cans about 95% full when storing treated fuel.
• Never use any fuel container, including one with a flame mitigation device, to start or speed up a fire. Scepter says this on its product page.

Refueling the generator

1. 01Shut the generator off and let it cool. Ready.gov warns that fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.
2. 02Set the can on the ground next to the generator, release the spout lock and hook the black bar over the tank opening.
3. 03Push down to pour; lift to stop. The valve closes when you remove the spout.
4. 04Wipe any spill and let it evaporate before restarting.
5. 05Restart outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages, with CO alarms working inside.