Warning on oil theft

POLICE Lurgan are advising residents to be vigilant following a report of an oil theft from a house in the Lurgan Tarry area over the past few weeks.

People should pay particular attention to any lorries, vans, and cars towing trailers laden with containers that would be capable of transporting oil.

To help prevent the theft of heating oil, make sure the lid of the tank is locked with a suitable padlock, and consider fitting sensor lights to brighten up dark areas around your home, particularly areas around the oil tank, and try to limit access to the tank by keeping gates closed and locked as well.

To minimise the risk of loss, consider ordering smaller amounts more often and fitting devices that monitor fuel use, and which are designed to alert householders when oil consumption rises suddenly or when the oil has been stolen.

Police would also advise that people calculate how much oil they use and to establish how long a fill of oil should last. Remember to keep a record of your latest delivery and don't forget to check the oil level regularly so that if a theft occurs you will know when it happened and how much was taken.

Don't forget that in colder weather heating may be on longer than normal and may be using more oil than you realise.

Anyone who wants further advice can contact their local police station on 0845 600 8000 and ask for the crime prevention officer.

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