NFU Mutual has urged farmers and rural homeowners to check their fuel tank security measures, in case soaring oil prices lead to a surge in diesel and heating oil theft.
According to NFU Mutual, past incidents have seen fuel thieves fit out panel vans with containers and a pump before scouring the countryside looking for farm fuel tanks, parked vehicles, and home heating oil tanks to empty and sell on the contents.
Rural Affairs Specialist at NFU Mutual, Hannah Binns said: “Thieves steal whatever they can get their hands on and sell on for a profit, and high diesel and heating oil prices often trigger an increase in thefts from farm fuel tanks.”
Binns explained that since the conflict in Iran began, “oil prices have risen to over $103 a barrel”.
She noted that farmers are also reporting that red diesel for use on the land has increased from 77.95ppl to 135.98ppl and that heating oil for homes has doubled.
“Fuel theft is a crime which often leaves a trail of destruction as thieves frequently smash valves and even drill into tanks to get the oil out.
“This can lead to pollution as any remaining oil seeps into the ground.” Binns said.
Binns highlighted a number of measures farmers and homeowners can take to reduce the risk of becoming victims of fuel theft by providing a NFU Mutual guide to help people protect their tank.
Fuel tank security checklist
Tank, contents and location:
- Record the number, location, tank storage capacity and the date/times when tanks are filled and regularly check levels;
- Where possible, locate the tank where it can be viewed from the farmhouse. Fuel tanks located away from buildings or dwellings are more vulnerable if they cannot be seen by occupants;
- Ideally tanks should be within an enclosed compound with secured access;
- Fit a fuel tank alarm to notify you of a theft. Remote electronic fuel level gauges will set off an audible or monitored alarm if the fuel level in the tank suddenly drops or falls below a defined level.
Site security:
- Keep field and farmyard gates closed and locked, and block exit points that are not used;
- Activate intruder alarm systems, which may have a local sounder or remotely monitored signalling;
- Install security lighting to illuminate any suspicious activity.
Vehicles and machinery:
- Use locking fuel tank caps;
- Keep tractors and powered machinery locked up and out of sight from public roads and footpaths when not in use to prevent thieves draining their fuel tanks;
- Check your fuel gauge is not showing irregularities in fuel levels.
