Heating oil thefts prompt police warning

16 October 2009

Homeowners are being urged to step up security and remain vigilant following a spate of domestic heating oil thefts in North Wales.

Thieves have struck at a number of properties across Flintshire over the past few weeks, with police warning those in rural areas in particular to take extra precautions.

Sergeant John Williams of North Wales Police said the recent rise in oil prices means such incidents could become more common in future.

"The theft of domestic heating oil has been a problem for a number of years, but increases in oil prices have seen the number of reported thefts increase," he observed.

Sgt Williams added that members of the public should remain alert to any suspicious activity, such as unmarked tankers or unusual vehicles.

He said fitting oil tank locks and security lights, as well as using fences or trellis to make access to tanks more difficult, could all help act as a deterrent to thieves.

Yesterday (Thursday October 15th), oil prices rose to a new one-year high of more than $77 (€51.68) a barrel as the recent market rally continued.

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