While availability within the UK is usually very good, the blockades at key oil distribution points in September 2000 and industrial action taken by Shell tanker drivers in June 2008 both serve to demonstrate the detrimental effects fuel shortages can have both at the national and regional levels.
Fuel shortages can occur for a number of reasons:
Industrial action
Panic buying
Public protest
Scarcity of supply
Technical problems
Financial losses for businesses and the economy
Inability to provide essential services
Lengthy return to normal supply levels
Car share
Consider alternative methods of transport - bike, bus, train or walk
Maintain your vehicle so that it's as fuel efficient as possible
Minimise car journeys as much as possible
Drive steadily - by keeping a constant speed you will consume less fuel
Don't idle at traffic lights
Did you know - you may keep up to 30 litres of petrol in a suitable container in a garage or shed. If you do store petrol remember never to keep it:
