In uncertain times, it is especially important to take sensible precautions to protect fuel stored on your property. Whether it’s fuel in your vehicle, heating oil in an external tank, or petrol kept in a shed for garden tools, all fuel can be a target for theft.

The practical steps below can help make your home and outbuildings less attractive to opportunistic thieves.

Protecting Fuel on Your Property

• Keep vehicle doors locked at all times. On most vehicles, this also secures the fuel‑filler door.
• If your vehicle’s fuel door does not lock automatically, consider fitting a lockable fuel cap.
• Store petrol and fuel containers securely, out of sight, in locked sheds or garages.
• Fit a robust, weather‑resistant padlock to heating oil tanks.
• Install motion‑activated lighting around sheds, vehicles, and oil tanks. Ensure lights point downward to illuminate the areas you want to protect.
• Consider installing CCTV to cover vulnerable areas. Position cameras high enough to prevent tampering and ensure they perform well in low‑light conditions. Test them at night to confirm they capture clear images, including faces.
• Display CCTV signage clearly if surveillance is in use.

Staying Alert to Suspicious Activity

Fuel theft is often preceded by individuals scouting a property. Stay vigilant for signs such as:

• Unfamiliar footprints, disturbed plants, or moved objects
• Dropped items like cigarette butts or food packaging
• Dogs barking or showing unusual anxiety, especially at night

If you notice unfamiliar individuals loitering in your area, make a note of what you see and inform your neighbours.

You can report suspicious behaviour to:

Police non‑emergency line: 101