17.02.12
Alarms recommended to protect Scottish heating oil tanks
Two heating oil theft incidents have happened in rural regions of Inveresk, Scotland, and police are keen to urge locals to keep their eyes and ears open for unusual behaviour.
Around 500 litres of heating oil has been stolen from the properties. Reports in the Brechin Advertiser newspaper claimed that both properties had very few security measures around their heating oil storage tanks, which were both kept outside.
Local policeman, Ian MacPherson, told the readers of the paper: “Residents should review the security of their tanks. Security lights and alarms should be fitted.”
Heating oil tank alarms, such as the Watchman Alarm, which is available locally from the Scottish Fuels depot in Dalkeith, sound an audible alarm when the level of oil in a tank falls suddenly. This can help alert owners when an attempted theft is taking place and can also scare thieves off.
Other security measures that can help deter thieves include locking tanks away in metal cages or in out-houses, or fitting extra security lights.
Constable MacPherson added, “These thefts come at a time when there is an increase in thefts of fuel nationwide. If you see any suspicious activity try and note the registration number of the vehicle and call the police.” 
