2.5 gal seems snall, like lots of trips to the gas station, but the
basics don't change...
Use a pad on the wing to protect the paint from grit on the bottom of
the can, cardboard is what I use, but rug, blankets, etc., will work
just fine...
Stand on something so that you are high enough for comfort and can see
the fuel coming up as the tank fills...
Hold one finger over the nozzle as you tip the can... Once the nozzle
is inserted you remove your finger and only then open the vent cap on
the can...
As long as you are leaning against the airplane as you open the wing
tank, uncap the can, etc., you don't have to worry about static
sparks... Your body acts as the ground strap that equalizes the charge
between the plane and the can...
Grounding the airplane won't hurt, but it won't help either...
Have you ever put gas in a lawn mower... Ever have one burst into
flames? The ariplane is just a big lawn mower - where the blades are
not expected to cut grass, though sometimes they do...

The local skydive airplane (high wing) pilot, built a wood cradle that
cradles the can so he doesn't have to hold onto it after tipping and
inserting the nozzle...

denny