With OPEC due to announce a slowdown in global oil production and the cost of domestic oil at an all time high, it is expected this winter will see a significant increase in incidents of oil theft from domestic tanks situated in gardens and outbuildings warns Gardien, the UK's garden security experts.
Bill Seddon, MD of Gardien says, "With the cold nights closing in it is around this time of year that domestic oil tanks are filled up for winter heating. These tanks are often sited in exposed areas outside the main house or garage or in an unsecured outbuilding and they are an easy target for thieves, particularly when the house is unoccupied. Householders should make every effort to ensure that the tap and filling cap are fitted with high quality British Standard insurance rated locks, that access to the tank and the property itself is restricted with good quality gates and perimeter protection, and that the tank is sited in a well lit area."
The average cost of filling a domestic tank is now well in excess of £500 and with the impending price rises, the aftermath of the credit crunch and a recession on the horizon these tanks will be preyed upon by thieves who will have no trouble passing on the fuel at a knock down price.
Bill Seddon comments, "Throughout the year we have seen the British garden becoming a regular target for both the opportunist and professional thief. Rich pickings have been had including metal furniture and statuary, and sheds have been plundered for electrical goods which are easily sold on for cash. With the dark nights upon us and gloomy economic prospects we expect the situation to get worse if homeowners do not start taking their security seriously."
Gardien has a comprehensive website at www.garden-security.co.uk which offers the householder a comprehensive resource and advice to protect their property - sections cover areas including prevention, retrieval, insurance and consultancy services along with accredited security products. Their advice is offered by nationally recognised security and garden industry experts.
We urgently advise all gardeners to extend their monthly work / maintenance schedules to include a few moments to review their Garden Security and to check their levels of insurance cover".
CHESHIRE. Oct. 2008
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