Fuel Theft on the Rise: Protect Your Fuel Tank

Thu, Jun 15, 2023

Fuel theft is on the rise according to the UKIFDA, with over 100,000 litres of fuel reported stolen in the last couple of months alone. The most recent sites affected were discovered in Devon and Worcestershire, with a mix of diesel and kerosene stolen.

Fuel Theft is on the Rise

What is Fuel Theft?

Fuel theft is where diesel, heating oil, petrol and HVO is stolen from vehicles and fuel tanks. Thieves are attracted to remote locations and generally target farms and construction sites late at night and over weekends when sites are often left unmanned. The fuel opportunists then use pipes to siphon the fuel away from sites.

Fuel theft is a crime that affects many different industries across the UK, including construction, farming and agriculture, motorists, homeowners and suppliers. The impact of this type of theft on people and the economy is exacerbated during periods of inflated oil and fuel prices, with many industries feeling the effect due to the stop to red diesel.

With this in mind, it's important to take steps to protect your fuel tank. Here are eight tips to help you keep your fuel safe, whether it is an oil tank or diesel fuel tank.

How to Prevent Fuel Theft

  1. Use a fuel tank lock. A fuel tank lock is a simple and effective way to deter thieves. The Spinsecure Oil Tank Lock is a popular choice, as it's easy to install.
  2. Install a tank level monitor. A tank level monitor can alert you if your fuel level drops too low. This can help you identify a potential theft early on. By using the CTS GSM Text Alerter, the tank level monitor will send you a text message when your fuel level reaches a certain point.
  3. Position your tank wisely. Thieves are more likely to target fuel tanks that are easy to access. If possible, position your fuel tank in a secure location, such as behind a fence or building.
  4. Consider using a slim-line tank for your oil or fuel. Slim-line tanks are designed to be more difficult to steal from. They are easier to hide, which can make them a less attractive target for thieves trying to do fuel theft.
  5. When it comes to diesel refuelling tanks, use a fuel management system. A fuel management system can restrict pump access to only authorised users, help you track fuel usage and identify any unauthorised or excessive use. This can help you prevent fuel theft and identify any potential problems early on.
  6. Keep your fuel tank clean and free of debris. This will make it more difficult for thieves to siphon fuel from the tank.
  7. Install security lights around your fuel or oil tank. This will deter thieves and make it easier to spot them if they do attempt to steal fuel.
  8. Report any suspicious activity to the police. Even if you are not sure if a crime has been committed, it is important to report it to the police. This will help them to build a case against any potential thieves.

By taking these steps, you can help to protect your fuel tank and oil tank from theft and keep your fuel safe.

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