An Angus MP has hit out at “heartless” thieves who store hundreds of litres of oil from a home’s outdoor fuel tank just days before Christmas.
The Courier revealed that 800 litres of oil, which cost more than £500, were stolen from a home in Hunter Hill, Glamis. A police spokesman said the theft could have taken place between Sunday afternoon and Tuesday evening.
The family have been able to arrange replacement fuel in time for Christmas. Angus MP Mike Weir described the theft as “despicable”.
He said: “At this time of year, there could have been very serious consequences. Many homes in rural areas rely upon home fuel oil and do not get the same consideration available to those on the gas grid.
“Home fuel oil and liquefied petroleum gas can also cost significantly more than mains gas to heat a home. The loss of such an amount of fuel is very serious for any families, but could be disastrous for many.
“Such fuel generally has to be paid for up front and many would find it difficult to replace.
“It is impossible for householders in rural areas to keep a close watch on tanks at all times but it illustrates again the advice to do as much has possible to guard against such heartless thieves.”
In the wake of the theft, police have again issued its ‘fuel safe’ advise to rural householders who have outdoor tanks.
It states: “It is difficult to secure such a valuable asset as it is kept outside, often in full view and has to be accessed easily by your fuel supplier.
“If your tank is emptied by a thief then you could be left with no heating over a cold snap and risk damage to your property and contents.
“Consider erecting a metal cage round your tank with a secondary lockable access hatch to the filler cap.
“Position of the tank is important. If it is out of view of your house windows and near a path or road then it is easier for the thief to target.
“Security lights can have a positive effect and deter thieves. CCTV can be deployed to watch over your tank and is a deterrent to thieves.
“Oil level gauges which are remotely operated are now available which set off an alarm if the oil level in a tank suddenly drops or falls below quarter full. These can be bought for less than £100.
“Check the oil level in your tank regularly for any spilt fuel, marks on your lock or any suspicious object alien to your garden nearby.”
A police spokeswoman added: “Tayside Division is making an inquiry after 700 litres of fuel was stolen from a farm at Glamis sometime between 4.30pm on Sunday and 6pm on Tuesday.
“Anyone who knows who is responsible for this theft should call police on 101.”