Watch moment shed explodes as fire service issue warning over storing petrol

CCTV captured the moment the shed exploded in a garden at a house in West Yorkshire Credit: West Yorkshire Fire Service

West Yorkshire Fire service has issued a warning about the storage of petrol after a garden shed exploded.

Dramatic footage captured on CCTV shows the moment the shed blew up after petrol vapours were ignited by a faulty light fitting. The remains were then engulfed by a large fire.

West Yorkshire Fire service has issued the following guidelines when storing/using petrol in and around the home and garden.

  • Do use only approved, labelled containers with correctly fitting lids

  • Do store in a well-ventilated area.

  • Do only store the minimum amount you need (2 x 5 litre plastic containers is the maximum allowed limit)

  • Do use a funnel/spout when decanting/refuelling and only do this outside

  • Do keep containers secure to protect against inappropriate use

  • Do replace any damaged or leaking containers/equipment

Here is advice on what not to do when storing petrol:

  • Don’t store petrol/petrol operated equipment in living accommodation

  • Don’t smoke or use naked flames when handling petrol/petrol operated equipment

  • Don’t overfill containers to avoid any spillages

  • Don’t fill containers to the brim, fuels expand and vapour can build up in hot weather

  • Don’t store containers in direct sunlight

  • Don’t use petrol to light bonfires as this can potentially cause a petrol vapour explosion.