The Bacolod City government reminded Bacolodnons to use petroleum-grade containers when buying fuel at gas stations to ensure safety, based on the Department of Energy (DOE) guidelines.

“Using the right container is important because gasoline and other petroleum products are flammable and dangerous if placed in ordinary plastic, thin bottles, or improvised containers that are not intended for such purpose,” the city government said in an advisory yesterday.

When using portable containers such as jerry cans or drums, ensure they are fuel- or petroleum-grade. Containers that do not meet these standards may lead to leakage, the release of harmful vapors, contamination, or even fire during transport or storage.

It added that the container should be sturdy, clean, leak-free, and easy to seal properly.

Under the DOE guidelines, purchasing fuel using portable containers is only allowed for legitimate operational purposes such as fisheries and marine equipment, sea transport operations, generator sets for hospitals, telecommunication facilities, and government offices, agricultural machinery and equipment, and telecommunication towers and related facilities.

Others include local government unit operational requirements, such as rescue and disaster response equipment, private businesses with valid purchase orders or operational needs, and port service transport units and other equipment used for operations.

When purchasing, the buyer is required to show proof or verification of the operational requirement, such as a business permit, a purchase order, certification, and other valid documents.

However, in times of potential supply shortage, fuel retail stations may also impose temporary and reasonable purchase limits per vehicle to prevent panic buying and hoarding and to ensure equitable access to available supply.

“In these situations, priority will be given to emergency response units, hospitals and medical facilities, government operations, public transportation, and telecommunications and other critical infrastructure,” the advisory said. (PNA)