Police warn of rise in heating oil thefts

18 May 2009

Home heating oil customers in Sussex are being urged to remain vigilant following a spate of recent crimes in the region.

According to the Sussex Express, there has been a significant rise in the number of reported thefts in Wealden, with thieves targeting sheds, garages and oil tanks.

Indeed, with many tanks hidden from view, police identified heating oil theft as a particular problem - and residents are being warned to be on their guard over the summer months.

Officers are advising that owners consider building a garden shed to house their oil tanks, which should be fitted with an alarm in order to deter thieves.

Reported incidents of heating oil theft soared last summer when the price of crude oil reached nearly $150 (£99) a barrel, but thieves have been less active since the market was hit by the economic crisis.

However, with prices having rallied in recent weeks to return to almost $60 a barrel, home heating oil customers will need to remain on their guard again in the coming months.

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