Wildfires are increasing in size and frequency, and convenience retailers with underground storage tanks (UST) and oil aboveground storage tanks (AST) should take special precautions in the event of a wildfire. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with help from NACS and other groups, has developed a guide to help owners and operators prepare for and respond to the environmental harm that may occur because of partial or fully burned UST systems or oil ASTs and associated piping and appurtenances. The guide also helps owners and operators return their facilities to service as soon as possible.

The EPA also offers an Underground Storage Tank Flood Guide with suggested practices that may help owners and operators quickly and safely restart UST systems in the event of a flood.

These and other NACS resources are available to help convenience retailers develop or enhance their disaster planning procedures.

For more emergency planning resources, visit the Disaster and Emergency Preparedness page at www.convenience.org/disaster.