A simplified model has been developed to describe the thermal response of pressure liquefied gas (PLG) tanks subjected to fire. The development of the stratification layer is considered in this model. Comparison of results with available experimental data shows that our proposed model can reasonably predict the thermal response. The effect of stratification on the liquid energy is also summarized. Results show that the pressure in the tank rises faster as a result of thermal stratification, and for the same tank pressure the energy in the liquid is less when the liquid is stratified. Stratification can reduce the severity of hazards of boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion (BLEVE). (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.