26 January 2011

Police are encouraging residents and businesses to increase their oil tank security following thefts. 

This reminder comes after around 20 litres of diesel and 20 litres of petrol were stolen from a commercial premises on Sawmills Road, Diss.

Diss Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant Julian Roots said: “These thefts are occurring in rural areas, so we are appealing for people to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to us. We are urging people to check their tanks and keep them locked and secure where possible.“

Norfolk Constabulary offers the following crime prevention advice for oil tank owners:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

If you are a witness or victim of oil theft, please report it to Norfolk Constabulary on 0845 456 4567.