How You Can Prevent Your Oil Being Stolen This Winter

Sometimes, living in a rural location can be a double-edged sword for those relying on heating oil for their central heating and hot water. They are a target for thieves who steal their fuel. Indeed, in 2018, there were more than 120,000 oil thefts in the UK, costing around £9 million. With people set to struggle more than ever with the cost of living this year, these numbers are set to rise even more.

If you need help in preventing heating oil theft you may find some of the following tips helpful.

Location of the oil tank

The size of oil tanks makes it challenging to conceal them, but there are some measures that can be taken in this regard. You should make it a priority to position your oil tank in such a way that it cannot be seen from the road but can be seen from the house. It should not be placed in any area that is close to an access point, such as a gate, or near any adjacent footpaths. Maintain secure access at all times by locking gates and ensuring that walls and fencing are in good repair. You can make your tank invisible on satellite images used by Google Maps by placing a cover over it, or you can store it in a building that has a lot of open space and is quite large, like a barn. It is important to exercise caution when planting trees and vegetation around the tank, particularly plants that are thorny or prickly, such as holly or hawthorn. On the other hand, you are responsible for adhering to the fire safety regulations established by OFTEC and ensuring that your oil tank is easily accessible so that your supplier can deliver your oil.

Lock It Up

Purchase padlocks with closed shackles, which are more difficult to cut with bolt croppers, and use them to secure not only your tank but also any nearby access gates. Make an investment in a fuel cap that locks and a device that prevents siphoning to deter the common criminal. Make certain that the locks are of a high quality. To make it more difficult for thieves to access your oil tank, you might want to think about installing a security gate or some secure fencing around it.

Install alarms

You can protect yourself and your heating oil tank with an alarm that can be attached to the tank and will sound an alarm if anything goes wrong. You will also be able to perform regular checks on the amount of oil that is present in your tank if you combine this feature with an oil tank monitor. However, even if you install an alarm on your oil tank, the oil will still be susceptible to theft unless you also display a sign indicating that the tank is protected by an alarm. In addition, you can put alarms in your home, any access gates, and even an outbuilding, if that is where your oil tank is kept.

Need More Advice?

If you would like more information on how to keep your oil safe and secure this winter, contact Northern Oil. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will be happy to offer advice and guidance.