HOMEOWNERS across Donegal are being warned to take extra precautions after reports of home heating oil thefts, with recent incidents in Fahan and Ballyshannon.
The issue is particularly concerning as families already struggle with rising fuel costs.
The gardaí have issued advice to the public, including preventative measures to protect their home heating oil.
Measures include checking oil levels frequently, attaching tank locks and installing lockable access gates.
Additional steps include fitting a tank alarm system to detect sudden drops in oil levels, increasing security lighting around the home and keeping tanks out of sight or surrounded by plants, shrubs or lockable fencing.
Gardaí also advise vigilance following oil deliveries, considering CCTV installation and looking out for neighbours.
Any suspicious activity or vehicles should be reported to Gardaí immediately, a garda spokesperson said.