Locational Characteristics and Fire Prevention Mechanisms of Petrol Stations in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Continuous increase in the number of petrol filling stations across major cities in Nigeria is becoming more worrisome. In the past, petrol stations in Nigeria were usually located along major roads where residential developments are sparsely distributed. Sadly, there is proliferation of petrol filling stations within residential areas exposing large number of residents to grievous loss of not just properties, but human lives. The regulatory agencies of government in Nigeria responsible for the approval and administration of petrol stations seem overwhelmed and ineffective. This study examines the locational attributes and distribution of petrol filling stations in Ogbomoso Township using nearest neighbor analysis. The result reveals that petrol filling stations are not evenly distributed, but clustered together thereby poses a serious threat to the members of the public. The study concludes by calling on all the regulatory agencies relevant to the development of petrol filling station to vehemently enforce their laws on the existing petrol stations and government at all levels to review various laws relating to the establishment and operation of petrol filling stations in the country in order to protect lives and properties.