Fuel theft

Tips to consider

• Secure vehicles in garage where possible.
• Consider the use of locking fuel caps.
• Re-fuel vehicles just before the planned journey rather than leaving a vehicle fully fuelled overnight.
• Park vehicles in areas that are well lit so they can be observed easily
• Use secure parking areas or compounds when vehicles are parked overnight, in particular vehicles not parked at their operating base.
• Consider the use of alarms. This could be on the vehicles themselves or for the perimeter of the parking/storage area. Improve lighting and focus on vulnerable areas.
• Fit anti-syphoning devices.
• Install or confirm existing CCTV is fit for purpose, and train a camera on tanks and vulnerable vehicles.
• Install cages and/or improve security that surrounds fuel storage tanks
• Consider using ‘bunded’ fuel tanks if your existing storage facility is not of that type.
• Consider the deployment of fuel dyes
• Commercial companies could consider fuel cards rather than storing fuel.
• Use defensive parking techniques, wherever possible park vehicles against solid objects on the fuel tank side to prevent access.
• Remove portable storage from sight (barrels, drums etc.) or make them secure.
• Consider installing fuel cap alarms –wireless transmitters can be placed inside the screw cap of the fuel tank. A magnetic switch on the device sets off an alarm if the cap is opened or tampered with. More advanced systems can be linked to security lighting or send a text message to the owners or security provider. An isolation switch allows authorized access to the tank for refueling.
• Mark sure gates and compounds are locked and secure, consider fitting an anti-attack cover for the lock.
• Do not leave keys in or near a vehicle or easily able to be found to facilitate theft.
• Arrange for vehicle & premise checks outside of normal working hours.
• Agricultural sites should consider portable refueling systems that can be locked in secure storage areas and not left in fields or stock yards.
• Use appropriate signage at the entrances where security devices are being used. It will act as a deterrent.