I've got an automatic car. I knew I was low on petrol so I thought the first thing I would do on my way to work would be to fill up on petrol. As luck would have it on my way I inconveniently ran out of fuel. Anyways It was opposite a petrol station so I got a can of petrol (5L) and put that in but still no luck. The car turns on then fades out all in about 5 seconds? Why? Everyone says don't try to turn it on too many times or I will cause it some real damage. Has anyone got any suggestion or handy hints? I'm desperate, I need my car for work and I don't know how to catch a bus. Can someone please save me? Does it need more fuel? Please don't tell me to start walking or I will cry, I'm feeling fragile. Any help is appreciated.
Thanks in advance
I do really so much appreciate everyone's help so far, the only problem is I'm a 20 yr old female and I don't know many things about cars.. I thought maybe I could leave in 24hrs to see if there was like an air bubble in the tank. Or press the accelerator to pump some fuel in. Or put some oil in the oil hole. Perhaps I will just have to get it towed to the mechanic.
Another thing is it does start. Like it doesn't just kinder rev and make that cranking noise it starts up full - as normal then dies. Why oh why does my car do this?
Thanks in advance

I do really so much appreciate everyone's help so far, the only problem is I'm a 20 yr old female and I don't know many things about cars.. I thought maybe I could leave in 24hrs to see if there was like an air bubble in the tank. Or press the accelerator to pump some fuel in. Or put some oil in the oil hole. Perhaps I will just have to get it towed to the mechanic.
Another thing is it does start. Like it doesn't just kinder rev and make that cranking noise it starts up full - as normal then dies. Why oh why does my car do this?