TRADING standards bosses are the latest to urge for calm in the wake of the panic at the petrol pumps.
It comes as earlier today national media reported a woman in York suffered 40 per cent burns after decanting petrol between containers at home.
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Officials this morning implored drivers not to stockpile fuel supplies at home ahead of a possible fuel strike.
Buckinghamshire Trading Standards warned homeowners that fuel storage should be kept to a minimum to avoid fires.
Terry Carter, Principal Trading Standards Officer, said: “We understand the short-term difficulties a petrol strike will cause people but public safety is our number one concern - therefore we would strongly advise people to be sensible and not to take unnecessary risks with fuel.
“As with all highly flammable liquids, there are obvious safety and legal issues associated with the storage of fuel around the home, which could result in increased risks to both residents and firefighters in the event of a fire.
He added: “Anyone considering storing fuel in their garage or shed should make sure they are doing so safely and within the law.”
The organisation issued this advice on legal requirements:
* It is only legal to store a maximum of 20 litres of petrol in two appropriate 10 litre metal containers, or a maximum of 10 litres of fuel in two appropriate 5 litre plastic containers
* Do not store fuel inside a domestic property
* Only store fuel away from the house in either a shed or a garage, well away from people and anywhere where it might be close to a naked flame or other source of ignition
* Only store fuel in approved plastic or metal containers specifically designed for fuel.
Appropriate containers are available from filling stations and car accessory stores
* Do not fill a container more than the capacity printed on the label
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