16,000 homes at risk of heating oil thefts

OFTEC, the UK trade body for the oil fired heating industry, issued a warning to oil users to think about the risk of oil theft and take steps protect their tanks.

Officials say that in recent years oil thefts have increased due to harsh winters and higher fuel prices.

They expect the trend to continue as the weather turns colder and homeowners replenishing their tanks.

Earlier this year, West Mercia Police launched a crackdown on rural crime in parts of Shropshire, warning that criminals were turning to countryside properties to steal things like heating oil, catalytic converters and power tools.

OFTEC said there were about 16,000 properties in Shropshire which used oil-fired heating.

Officials warned oil users to take the necessary precautions to protect their oil over the winter period.

Malcolm Farrow, of OFTEC, said: "Unfortunately, oil is a valuable asset so this is a problem we're seeing more frequently. Quite often oil users don't know anything has happened until their heating suddenly stops working and they are horrified to find that their tank has been drained, so it is good practice to check your tank level regularly.

"The fuel tank can be damaged in the process of theft so it's not just the cost and inconvenience of replacing the oil that users need to be aware of. In extreme cases a new tank is required which can leave someone without heating for several days and with quite a hefty bill.

"The good news is that there are some simple things that can be done such as fitting lockable caps and installing a security light. Electronic level gauges and alarms are also very effective in alerting someone to a sudden drop in their oil level."

For more information including details of local OFTEC registered technicians who can offer advice on how to protect tanks, visit the OilSave website www.oilsave.org.uk