Watch your Oil Tanks

With the price of crude oil remaining high local Police have warned that fuel oil tanks can be rich and easy pickings for thieves.

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Schools, transport depots, domestic properties and holiday homes can all be targets; however Police in E District are advising that by taking a few simple precautions, you can help protect your oil.

LOCK YOUR GATES. The simple act of keeping your garden or drive gates closed and securely locked can prevent a theft. Ensure that all gates and fences are in good repair.

CREATE OBSTACLES. Plant pots and general garden paraphernalia can be placed in the path of any potential intruders. They will make noise and waste time moving the items or navigating around them. Remove and secure any tools or ladders which could be used as an aide to commit crime.

LIMIT THE QUANTITY OF FUEL IN YOUR TANK. Full tanks are a more popular target, so consider limiting the amount of oil that you have in your tank at any one time.

LOCK YOUR TANK. Use a good quality, alarmed padlock or install lockable caps with crop proof fittings. Were possible fit hardened flexible casings, to any vulnerable fuel hoses, so that they are harder to cut.

CONSIDER INSTALLING SECURITY LIGHTING AND CCTV. Lights don't not only warn you of an intruder but also alert neighbours and passing police patrols. Further crime prevention advice is available from your local Neighbourhood Policing Teams or from the Crime Prevention officer by calling 0845 600 8000.