FUEL COST RISES: Garda warning over home heating oil thefts

GARDAÍ in Donegal have warned that due to the sudden increase in the price of oil, there may be a surge in incidents of theft of home heating oil.

Gardaí have asked the public to be extra vigilant to help avoid their homes being targeted.
And they have also issued a list of preventative measures which home and business owners should consider.

The public are being encouraged to check oil levels frequently and to try to arrange smaller but more frequent oil deliveries.
Home owners are also advised to install proper security lighting or CCTV in the area around the tank.

“Security lights can have a very positive effect and make the property a much harder target for the thief,” a Garda spokesperson said.

Gardaí are also urging the public to be extra vigilant following a delivery of oil and to be aware that thieves may return to steal replacement oil following an initial theft.

The Garda advice includes:

• Check oil levels frequently.

• Try to arrange smaller but more frequent oil deliveries.

• Install automatic movement sensor security lighting around the tank.

• Plant shrubs or erect fencing to screen tanks from view from the road.

• Install and use lockable access gates, and erect lockable fencing around your tank, including over the top.

• Consider fitting an alarm system which warns if the oil level drops suddenly.

• Be vigilant following a delivery.

• Be aware thieves may return to steal replacement oil following an initial theft.

• Note suspicious vehicles’ registration numbers and report them to Gardaí.