THURSDAY, APRIL 29, 2021
 Most people know that a gas station is not a safe place to light a match. We have all probably seen the video footage of the fires that can explode into out-of-control blazes just because a driver backed into a pump, after all. It’s not hard to assume how gas station fires could easily be devastating, not just to your own livelihood but also to others in the vicinity of the fire.
Because you can’t eliminate every fire risk, you need a strong commercial insurance portfolio to protect your gas station against any unpreventable losses. Still, let’s take a closer look at what you can do to prevent fire risks in your store in the first place.
Fire Risks in Gas Stations
Gas stations sell a flammable, explosive material. It might only take a single spark to send an entire gas station property up in flames, as a result.
Of course, the presence of flammable materials is the primary fire risk for any gas station. However, there are plenty of other risks present, too.
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Spilt gasoline is not easy to wash away, and there’s always a chance a few drops might spill out with every fill-up. Over time, the accumulation could easily create puddles that might ignite. Spill risks don’t exist only in the parking lot. Individuals could track gas and other flammable solvents into the store.
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If you sell propane or other gas in containers, then these are also fire risks.
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Stores that sell tobacco products create fire risks simply by stocking those items.
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Cooking utensils in the store can present fire risks if left unmonitored.
Even your utilities might present fire risks if you fail to maintain these systems. While you might not think a flickering light is a sign of trouble, it could get worse instantly.
Preventing Fire Risks
Your gas station’s insurance portfolio should include commercial property coverage. It will help you rebuild, repair or replace damaged physical assets following unexpected accidents. Fires are generally covered under the terms of this policy.
Still, when you could have clearly prevented a fire but failed to do so, you might find that your coverage will not insure you. Therefore, you should do all you can to keep fire risks as low as possible throughout your property:
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Know where your station’s emergency shutoff valve is. If a spill occurs, stop the pumps.
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Post warning signs around the property to tell customers how to react should they smell fumes, see spills or notice fires.
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Keep an emergency extinguisher on hand to help you contain small fires.
If you ever notice problems with your pumping systems or other parts of the store, have them repaired. The sooner you can get control of a problem, the lower safety risks will likely be.
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