IN the face of rising petrol costs, Hampshire County Council is warning residents of the serious risks posed by storing large amounts of fuel.
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 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.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Ken Thornber, said: “I would strongly urge residents not to risk the safety of themselves and their families by storing fuel illegally.”
For more information visit hants.gov.uk/tradingstandards/ petrol-advice.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here