Corporate Communications
Don’t Risk It - Illegal Petrol Storage
01/10/2012 12:00:00
In the face of rising petrol costs, Hampshire County Council is warning residents of the serious risks posed by storing large amounts of petrol.
This caution follows a recent intervention by Hampshire’s Trading Standards officers, after a tip-off, when a Farnborough resident was found to be storing 11 cans of petrol in their garage at home, far in excess of the legal amount.
Petrol is highly flammable and strict regulations are in place to reduce the risk of a fire or explosion. Penalties on conviction for illegal storage of petrol can be imprisonment or an unlimited fine. Having more than the legal amount on private premises can also invalidate home insurance.
No more than two cans should be kept at home, and only approved containers should be used. Metal containers can be up to ten litres in size, and plastic ones should be no larger than five litres. Approved containers must be labelled as containing petrol, have a secure leak proof cap and be made from a material which does not dissolve in contact with petrol. Plastic containers must be labelled as complying with The Petroleum Spirit (Plastic Containers) Regulations 1982.
The advice is to keep petrol containers in a well ventilated building, preferably in a garage not integral to your house or a shed, and if possible, a powder or foam fire extinguisher should be kept nearby.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Ken Thornber, said:
“The storage of petrol is strictly regulated because it is a very dangerous and highly flammable substance. I would strongly urge residents not to risk the safety of themselves and their families by storing fuel illegally..”
For more information visit -
www.hants.gov.uk/tradingstandards/petrol-advice
For media inquiries please contact Anya Fisher, Press Officer Tel: 01962 846006 email: Anya.Fisher@hants.gov.uk
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