We are seeing a rise in Heating Oil Thefts due to the ongoing price increases seen nationally.  Static above ground fuel tanks, such as domestic heating oil tanks are among the most at risk of fuel theft. Thieves can syphon fuel from tanks within minutes and a tank that is not properly protected will make an easy target for thieves.

Please be vigilant, look out for one another and if you see something suspicious or not quite right please report it to Norfolk Police by calling 101.  Always dial 999 in an emergency or if a Crime is in progress.

You can help secure your heating oil by following these steps:-

• Keep your tank in a well overlooked position – this will ensure thieves are more likely to be seen.
• If your tank is close to your house make sure that it can be seen from your windows – this coupled with lighting will make it less of a target.
• Security lights can help deter potential thieves. Low level ‘dusk ‘til dawn’ lights positioned close to the tank should, in most cases, provide sufficient light to illuminate any suspicious activity.
• Enclosing your tank in a building which can be secured is better still. However, it is important not to overlook the importance of ventilation; advice should be sought from your oil company.
• If you have a gate keep it closed and locked when you are out.
• Make sure your perimeter fence is in good condition and is not easy to climb. Consider the use of trellis on top of any rear fencing to increase height.
• Invest in a good quality lock. Close shackle padlocks are recommended as they offer better resistance to bolt croppers and other tools that thieves usually come equipped with.
• Invest in an approved tank alarm.
• Check your oil gauges regularly to alert you to any potential thefts and help investigations by narrowing crime times down. Many tanks can be fitted with a gauge to monitor levels which can be read inside the house.