Heating Oil Security Reminder

29th October 2024

Residents in rural areas are reminded to review the security of their heating oil tanks following several thefts in the Huntly area.

Heating oil tanks have the potential to store thousands of pounds worth of fuel and are often located in remote areas - this can make them an attractive target for thieves.

To steal heating oil, thieves will usually decant, syphon or pump oil from your tank into other containers. Thieves might use this oil themselves or sell it on.

Where possible locate the tank where it can be viewed from a habitable building and where increased natural surveillance can be maximised, such as in sight of a farmhouse or construction site offices, especially the security office if it is occupied during the night. Fuel tanks located away from buildings or dwellings are more vulnerable if they cannot be seen by occupants or staff, especially if vehicular access is not restricted.

Fit a fuel tank alarm and monitoring system to notify you of an attack on fuel tanks. Remote electronic fuel level gauges will set off an audible or monitored alarm if the fuel level in the tank suddenly drops or falls below a defined level.

Fuel theft is a significant crime that affects people and businesses across the UK including farming, motorists, homeowners and the
construction industry. This type of theft is exacerbated during periods of inflated oil prices.

Scan the QR code below for Secured by Design member companies that can offer products designed to reduce the risk of fuel theft.

Static above ground fuel tanks, mobile bowsers, domestic heating oil tanks and diesel tanks on farms and construction sites are most at risk of fuel theft.

Theft techniques include syphoning the fuel into plastic containers or using a fuel transfer pump to steal from larger bulk vehicles, or in the case of bowsers, driving off with them when they are out on site.

Keep the tank visible:
Where possible locate the tank where it can be viewed from a habitable building and where increased natural surveillance can be maximised, such as in sight of a farmhouse or construction site offices, especially the security office if it is occupied during the night. Fuel tanks located away from buildings or dwellings are more
vulnerable if they cannot be seen by occupants or staff, especially if
vehicular access is not restricted.

Fit an alarm: Fit a fuel tank alarm and monitoring system to notify you of an attack on fuel tanks. Remote electronic fuel level gauges will set off an audible or monitored alarm if the fuel level in the tank suddenly drops or falls below a defined level.