Your oil tank is a valuable source of fuel for your home – literally. While modern tanks have robust security features to prevent unwanted drilling or siphoning, there are a few simple steps you can take that will keep your tank and its contents even safer.
- Keep the filler cap locked. A lockable cap is inexpensive if your tank doesn’t currently have one.
- Position your oil tank somewhere visible from your home.
- Shield the tank from the view of the road using a cover, fence or shrubs (but be aware of potential fire risks and access requirements).
- Keep any gates to your property closed and locked, particularly at night and when you’re not at home.
- Invest in proper tank maintenance and don’t delay replacing it when the time comes. Weak spots and corrosion make your tank much more vulnerable.
- Fit a motion-triggered security light overlooking your tank.
- Install a tank monitor to measure oil levels inside the tank. This can tell you when to refill the tank, but also alert you to sudden drops from a leak or theft.
- Be especially cautious following an oil delivery, as discerning thieves may be waiting until they know your tank is full.
- Arrange with neighbours to keep an eye out for suspicious activity, and report any incidents to the police.
- Make sure your home contents insurance covers oil theft, which will cushion the inconvenience and expense of replacement in a worst-case scenario.
Any combination of these small measures will discourage opportunists, and give you plenty of peace of mind that your fuel supply stays protected
