Message from Highland and Islands Fire and Rescue Service
Message from Highland and Islands Fire and Rescue Service
Highland and Islands Fire and Rescue Service is strongly advising members of the public not to stockpile fuel, as this seriously increases the extent and speed of fire spread should ignition occur.
Chief Fire Officer, Brian Murray, said: “In addition, responding emergency crews will not be aware where fuel is being stored and may be exposed to an unnecessary level of risk. Fuel must not be stored in living accommodation. Only if there is an urgent need, storage of small amounts in properly sealed containers should be located in a detached secure outbuilding.”
If it is necessary to transfer fuel from any container into a vehicle - the following advice should be adhered to:-
• No smoking and no naked lights in the vicinity
• Switch off the vehicle engine
• Decant in the open air - not inside the garage
• Use a pouring spout or funnel
• If clothing is splashed with fuel, remove it immediately.
Mr Murray added: “Petroleum vapours can cause serious health risks particularly in confined spaces, causing dizziness and unconsciousness. Most importantly, do not attempt to use the mouth to siphon petrol or diesel, under any circumstances. This can result in it entering the lungs or stomach, which can be fatal.”
At a second meeting of The Highland and Islands Strategic Co-ordinating Group today (Monday), the Group repeated their plea to people to continue to act in a sensible manner in relation to fuel.
Chief Superintendent Bruce Duncan, who chaired today’s meeting of the Highlands and Islands Strategic Co-ordinating Group in the absence of Chief Constable Ian Latimer, said: “Our message remains virtually unchanged and we would reiterate our plea for the public not to rush to the pumps. If the sensible fuel purchasing levels, which we have seen from the public over the weekend, continues then we will have adequate levels across the Highlands and Islands to reach the end of the strike and beyond. As a precautionary measure, however, we would encourage members of the public to take simple steps to conserve fuel. Car sharing, using public transport where possible and not making unnecessary journeys can make a difference and will assist emergency services and their partner agencies, whose ongoing requirement for fuel is critical. People perhaps do not realise that by modifying their driving style, e.g. lowering speed, they can greatly reduce their fuel consumption and increase efficiency.”
-ends-