Panic buying causing tailbacks in Essex
Police are warning against calling them because of queues
Drivers are being reminded to behave sensibly around petrol stations in Essex.
Police are reporting queues outside them this weekend, which has been causing travel problems.
Motorists are being told that unless there's been a crash or a crime has been committed, there is no need to call emergency services.
Officers are also urging people not to be abusive to forecourt staff, who are just doing their jobs.
Chief Superintendent Jenny Barnett said:
“I want to thank the majority of the public who are buying petrol when they need it, and remaining considerate and calm.
"We’ve had more than 100 calls into our control room in the last 24 hours from people stating they are stuck in a build-up of traffic.
“We understand being stuck in a queue is frustrating, but our 999 and 101 numbers need to be kept for reporting emergencies and information about crimes or incidents.
“If our call handlers are dealing with calls about traffic build up, they’re unable to take calls from people who really need our help.
“And no matter how exasperating it might be to be waiting in a queue, there is no excuse for abusing staff at petrol stations, who are just trying to do their job in difficult circumstances.”