Hy-Vee Rolling Out User-Friendly Gas Pumps

QUINCY, Ill. -- Hy-Vee Inc. is installing special call buttons on its gas pumps that allow drivers to ask for assistance without getting out of their vehicles. The FuelCall system debuted at two local gas stations in November and, in response to managers’ requests, Hy-Vee is rolling out the program to all its 232 Midwestern locations.

According to the Quincy Herald Whig, drivers who need help can pull their cars beside a small blue sensor, mounted about three feet above the ground, and either press a button to sound a bell or hold out a hand in front of its camera. Employees inside the store then receive an alert message.

Chuck Arnold, a gas station manager at Hy-Vee’s 1400 Harrison store in Quincy, told the newspaper that the FuelCall system is useful for customers with disabilities, elderly drivers and parents with small children -- all of whom may find it hard to pump their own gas. "It makes it a lot easier because we don’t have to watch the pumps anymore," he said.

FuelCall gas pumps are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; however, Arnold added that employees will help customers any time they need assistance.