FOLLOWING an increase in fuel thefts, Devon and Cornwall Police would like to remind people to remain vigilant and to consider the following Crime Prevention advice:

Fuel theft from vehicles:

• Secure vehicles and keys (Do not leave keys in vehicles!)

• Consider locking fuel caps

• Consider security lighting and overt/covert CCTV

• Consider the use of alarms and anti-siphoning devices

• Park vehicles in busy, well-lit or overlooked areas if possible, ideally covered by CCTV

• Parking with the fuel filler cap facing the road may act as a deterrent as thieves cannot hide behind the vehicle

• Sign up to Farm/Business Watch and DCAlert.

Fuel theft from tanks and heating oil:

• Position tank close to house or where it’s overlooked or otherwise monitored

• Switches that control the flow of oil should be turned off and electricity supplies should be isolated when tank is not in use

• Invest in a quality lock. Closed shackle padlocks offer the most resistance

• Consider installing an oil level gauge as they set off audible alarms if the level in the tank suddenly drops or falls below a quarter full

• Protect tanks and cylinders -install cages and use defensive planting

• Lock gates and compounds and make fences/hedges etc secure

• Consider mobile refuelling equipment if a business

• Join Farm/Business Watch and DCAlert

• Signage may act as a deterrent.

Battery theft:

• Follow relevant advice given above under fuel theft, and in addition:

• Deter thieves by uniquely marking batteries with, for example, a postcode, identifiable colours and dna markers

• Consider installing a battery lock or secure box for electric fencing batteries which ideally is chained to a ground anchor or other immoveable object

• Keep electric fencing batteries out of sight where possible

• Do not allow old batteries to accumulate on site as this may attract thieves.

Please report any suspicious activity immediately either via 999 - if an emergency (happening at the time) or 101 for non-emergency (already happened).