Heating oil thefts still a problem

16 May 2012

Posted by Neil Brunskill

Heating oil theft in Ashbourne is still a major issue, according to local police officers.

Speaking to the Ashbourne News Telegraph, police community support officer Kate Clevely noted that the key driver for thefts was the fact that heating oil prices have risen dramatically in recent months - making the commodity much more attractive to criminals.

The Tissington Area Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team member highlighted one case in which more than 800 litres of heating oil was stolen.

Mrs Cleveley suggested that communities should work together to protect themselves against this kind of opportunist crime.

"Make sure that tank lids are locked with a suitable secure padlock, and consider fitting security sensor lights to brighten up dark areas around your home," she told the news provider.

She also suggested that all out-of-the-ordinary activity should be reported as a precautionary measure.

Theft of heating oil seems to be a nationwide problem, with residents in Suffolk recently warned about the consequences of poor security following a major theft in Beck Row, reports the Newmarket Journal.

If you have been the victim of a heating oil theft in the last year, visit BoilerJuice's new oil theft watch service to make an anonymous report or to register for free oil theft alerts in your area.