Cross-Sectional Assessment of Fire Safety Awareness Among Petrol and LPG Filling Stations Operators in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

Petrol (gasoline) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) filling stations are high-risk facilities due to the storage and handling of flammable liquids and pressurized gases in environments with frequent human activity. This study assessed fire safety awareness, emergency preparedness, and compliance among petrol and LPG filling station operators in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional design was adopted, involving 100 respondents (50 petrol and 50 LPG operators) selected through simple random sampling across the three senatorial districts of the state. Data were collected using a structured Knowledge–Attitude–Practice (KAP)–based fire safety questionnaire and a fire safety observation checklist. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were employed. Findings revealed high awareness of inherent fire hazards in both petrol (100%) and LPG (94%) stations; however, this awareness did not translate into adequate emergency preparedness. Major gaps were identified in formal fire safety training, staffing adequacy, confidence in evacuation, knowledge of emergency contacts, routine fire drills, and understanding of emergency response procedures. Although fire extinguishers were widely available and accessible in both facility types (82%), operational knowledge, routine inspection, and maintenance were poor. LPG stations demonstrated slightly better training and procedural awareness than petrol stations, but compliance remained suboptimal across both sectors. Positive correlations among personnel factors, equipment management, and fire procedures indicate that fire safety performance is systemic rather than isolated. The study concluded that fire safety awareness in petrol and LPG filling stations in Akwa Ibom State is uneven and insufficient to ensure effective fire risk management. Targeted regulatory enforcement, mandatory training, routine fire drills, and strengthened safety culture are recommended to reduce fire and explosion risks and enhance safety in and around petrol and LPG filing stations.