Fuel Level circuit in gas tank - Dangerous? - Put my mind at ease please.

[ncpetersc]

I know this is silly, as this is probably done in millions of vehicles without issue. But I can't stop thinking about the fact that part of an electrical circuit is in the gas tank. Why isn't this dangerous?

My understanding is that fuel level is basically sensed using a potentiometer which exhibits a different resistance based on float arm angle.

I'm only assuming that this is must be part of an electrical circuit to be measured. And an electrical circuit failure could result in an arc, causing disastrous results.

I know this concern has to be completely ridiculous. But I would love it if someone could put my mind at ease with some nice logical explanation as to why this isn't something to worry about.

I'm about to install a new tank (and sending unit) and for some reason can't stop thinking about this today.

Thanks!