Rural fuel theft prevention.

Good Morning Resident

Following reports of several fuel thefts in rural areas, I would like to remind residents, farmers, landowners and rural businesses to remain vigilant. 

Thieves are targeting diesel, heating oil and fuel stored in tanks, machinery and agricultural vehicles. These offences can have a significant financial impact and cause disruption to farms, businesses and local communities. 

You can help reduce the risk by taking a few simple precautions… 

>Check fuel tanks and storage regularly for signs of tampering. 

>Keep tanks in well lit, visible locations where possible.

>Install locks, alarms or CCTV to deter offenders 

>Consider anti-siphon devices and fuel level monitoring systems.

>Secure gates and restrict access to yards and storage areas. 

>Record fuel deliveries and monitor usage so any discrepancies are identified quickly. 

>Remove keys from vehicles and machinery when not in use and store them securely. 

Please report any suspicious vehicles or people in the rural areas, particularly those seen near farms, fuel tanks or isolated business premises. If it is safe to do so make a note of vehicle registration numbers, description and direction of travel. Any suspicious drone flying around the areas mentioned also needs reporting. 

Our high visibility rural patrols will continue daily however we need as many eyes as possible to help us prevent crime and identify those responsible.

If you witness a crime in progress or believe there is an immediate threat to life or property, call 999. For non-emergency report suspicious activity by calling 101 or using online reporting services. 

Thank you for your continued support in helping our efforts to keep the Rural Whitby community safe.