Police Scotland continue to see a rise in fuel thefts across all areas of the country.  This can largely be attributed to recent fuel prices and speculation about fuel shortages. All types of fuel are being targeted from domestic heating oil to commercial fuels stored on farms and construction sites. 

Keep the tank visible: Where possible locate the tank where it can be viewed from a habitable building such as in sight of a farmhouse or construction site office. Tanks located away from buildings or dwellings are more vulnerable if they cannot be seen by occupants or staff, especially if vehicle access is not restricted. 

Reduce access points: Keep access points to the fuel depot on sites to a minimum, keep gates closed and block exit points that are not used. 

Use SBD (Secured by Design) approved standards: Consider the introduction of perimeter fencing and associated gates to LPS 1175 issue 8.1 A1 (SR1) or above standard, subject to a location security risk analysis to identify threats and vulnerabilities. Where gates are secured by a padlock or a similar locking mechanism, ensure that it meets a Secured by Design (SBD) approved standard. 

Fit an alarm: Fit a fuel tank alarm to notify of an attack. Remote electronic fuel level gauges will set off an audible or monitored alarm if the fuel level in the tank suddenly drops or falls below a defined level. Where fuel tanks are in remote locations, consider a secure and alarmed steel container. 

Use anti-siphoning devices: Fuel tanks should be fitted with a locking fuel cap and anti-siphoning devices. Anti-siphoning devices stop a pipe from being dipped into the fuel and fuel being pumped or syphoned out of the tank. These products also work on HGVs or construction plant, as well as on static on-site fuel tanks. Use an accredited lock that meets the Police Preferred Specification. 

Consider a detection system: On high-risk exposed sites, an additional detection system should be considered such as a Perimeter Intrusion Detection System (PIDS). 

Restrict access: Where a perimeter treatment is not a suitable option, consider the introduction of bollards or other vehicle mitigation measures which help restrict access.

Implement management systems: A fuel Management system can be crucial to identify fuel theft, especially where there are many users or the tank is located out of sight. A good fuel management system should accurately record users, date and time of use.

Minimise the amount of fuel on site particularly on remote or rural sites.

Report sightings of suspicious persons or vehicles as soon as possible via 101 or 999

For further advice contact – northeastcrimereduction@scotland.police.uk

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Police Scotland’s North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.  The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function. Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community. These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues.  They are assisted by the division’s Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.