Panic buying of petrol in Hyderabad sparks major safety concerns

Rumours of fuel shortages have triggered unsafe petrol storage practices across Hyderabad. People are storing fuel in homes and vehicles, raising fire risks. Officials and fire safety experts have warned against such practices, citing danger of explosions and strict regulations.

Hyderabad: Amid panic triggered by rumours of fuel shortages linked to tensions in West Asia, a dangerous trend is emerging across the city. People are filling petrol in cans and storing it in houses, garages, bike dickeys, and car boots, which could lead to mishaps.

At several fuel stations, motorists are seen purchasing petrol in plastic cans, bottles, and drums, ignoring safety norms. Many are storing the fuel at home or keeping extra stock inside vehicles for future use, believing supplies may run short.

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Petrol, being a highly volatile and flammable fuel, should not be stored in unapproved containers or confined spaces like homes, parking areas, or vehicle compartments, as this significantly increases the risk of fire. In vehicles, especially, keeping petrol in the dickey of a bike or the boot of a car is extremely dangerous. Heat buildup, friction or even a minor spark can ignite petrol vapours.

Experts warn that since these vapours are heavier than air, they can accumulate in enclosed spaces and travel to ignition sources, causing sudden fires or explosions.

Similarly, storing petrol inside houses or garages could put entire families and neighbouring properties at risk.

“A small leak or accidental exposure to heat sources, such as electrical switches, kitchen flames, or even static electricity, can trigger a major blaze,” said an official from the fire department.

Safety regulations clearly prohibit carrying petrol in loose or unapproved containers except under strict emergency conditions. Even then, fuel stations are required to record details of the buyer. However, these norms are widely being ignored, both by customers and some fuel outlets.

Officials said petrol storage is allowed only for specific industrial purposes under licensed conditions with proper safety measures in place.

Petrol safety – Do’s and Don’ts

*Purchase only the required quantity of fuel

*Use approved containers if absolutely necessary

*Keep fuel away from heat and ignition sources

*Follow fuel station safety guidelines

*Do not store petrol in homes, garages, or residential areas

*Do not keep petrol in bike dickeys or car boots

*Do not use plastic bottles or loose containers

*Do not hoard fuel due to rumours

*Do not ignore fire safety precautions