Experts have issued a warning to motorists planning to stockpile fuel at home amid concerns around rising prices and queues at petrol stations.
Strikes from Israel and the United States against Iran, and the death of the nation's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have resulted in rising tensions across the Middle East.
Iran has recently threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, which controls the flow of around 20 per cent of the global supply of oil, potentially resulting in soaring costs.
The global cost of Brent Crude Oil has rocketed to above $81 (£61), which will likely lead to petrol and diesel price hikes in the UK.
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According to the latest data from RAC Fuel Watch, drivers are paying an average of 134.22p for petrol and 144.21p for diesel, which has jumped since last week.
In recent days, the RAC has changed its forecast to warn that the price of petrol, diesel and premium fuels is "likely to rise".
Graham Conway, managing director at Select Van Leasing, said drivers may try and get ahead of the rising fuel prices to save money.
However, he clarified that motorists must understand the "risks and responsibilities" associated with storing fuel at home.
Drivers are being warned of the rules around stockpiling fuel at their homes amid the current uncertainty in the Middle East
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He said: "Petrol is one of the most flammable substances you can keep at home. Using the right containers and storing it safely can help prevent accidents and protect your insurance cover if anything goes wrong.
"It might be convenient to have spare fuel, but doing it wrong can end up costing far more than you save."
Under UK law, drivers can store up to 30 litres of petrol at home or non-workplace premises without needing to inform the Petroleum Enforcement Authority (PEA).
The fuel can be stored in a portable metal or plastic container, one demountable fuel tank, or a combination of the two.
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Petrol and diesel prices across the UK peaked in the months after the Russian invasion of Ukraine | PAMotorists must inform their local PEA if they wish to store more than 30 litres of petrol and up to a maximum of 275 litres at home.
They will need to provide their name and address as the occupier of the storage area where the fuel is stored, and keep it in a suitable container.
Breaking these rules can lead to enforcement action, especially if it is discovered after a fire or an insurance claim.
The expert also called on drivers to use containers that are purpose-built to meet British Standards and display appropriate markings.
Jerry cans full of fuel should always be stored in a safe manner | PAHe explained that containers without seals or safety vents can leak, expand or even explode when temperatures rise
Mr Conway concluded: "While fines for illegal storage are rate, local authorities have the power to issue penalties or take legal action if unsafe storage is reported or causes a hazard.
"In the event of a fire, you could be found liable, even if the fuel was being kept for personal use."