(MUNICIPALITY OF WEST PERTH, ON) The Perth County OPP has noted a recent increase in gasoline thefts. The same spike in thefts was evident the last time fuel prices escalated and as the price of fuel climbs, so will the likelihood of more gasoline thefts.
Two reported thefts in the Municipality of West Perth this past week have revealed the determination on the part of the thieves to steal fuel. Sometime between Friday March 18 and Monday March 21 someone punctured the gas tank of a commercial pickup truck on Georgina St. in Mitchell. The gas tank containing approximately $120 worth of gasoline was drained.
A second theft was reported to police on Thursday March 24, 2011 from a business property along Hwy. 23 in Monkton. This theft occurred between 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday March 23 and the noon hour on Thursday March 24, 2011. The theft was completed by punching two holes in the tank and draining about $100 worth of gasoline.
The Perth County OPP is requesting anyone who may have information about these thefts to contact them at 1-888-310-1122 or to call CRIME STOPPERS at 1-800-222-8477.
The high fuel prices create the desire for free fuel, whether that be a drive-off or using a siphon hose to pilfer it from a private tank. The opportunity to commit the crime is all that’s needed and is the one area you can control. There are a number of ways you can remove the “opportunity†and reduce the chances of becoming a victim. Here are a few tips that might stop you from being targeted.
o Consider installing a locking gas cap. Remember that many of the “fuel doors†that open remotely or with a key are flimsy and easily compromised.
o Avoid parking in dark, isolated areas (especially for extended periods).
o At home park in a locked garage where possible. If you don’t have a garage park as close as possible to the house and avoid parking on the street.
o If you must park on a street or in a parking lot attempt to locate your vehicle so the fuel door is visible to you or other residents in your area.
o If you have bulk fuel stored on your property ensure you lock the tank and or dispenser to prevent access.
o Don’t hesitate to call police if you witness suspicious activity in an area where fuel is stored or around parked vehicles. Be a good witness so If possible record the license plate number and/or vehicle and suspect descriptions.
It costs over a hundred dollars to fill the tank on a lot of vehicles today, so what are you doing to protect your hard earned money? The replacement of punctured fuel tanks could also cost you many hundreds of dollars. “Take precautions against fuel thefts!â€