Police Service of Northern Ireland officers recommend steps to secure home heating oil tanks and supplies against theft. The guidance covers physical barriers, alarms and tank placement.

Homeowners should keep garden and driveway gates closed and locked at all times. Officers suggest repairing fences and gates to block access. Thorny plants such as pyracantha, berberis, climbing roses, hawthorn and gooseberry bushes can surround tanks and boundaries.

Place plant pots and garden items around tanks to slow intruders and create noise. Secure tools and ladders out of reach to prevent their use in break-ins. Limit oil levels in tanks since fuller ones attract thieves more often.

Use alarmed padlocks or lockable caps on tanks, along with reinforced casings on fuel hoses. Install level gauges that trigger audible alarms if oil drops suddenly or falls too low. Security lights and CCTV systems can alert residents and neighbours.

Welded tank cages provide strong protection, especially after prior thefts. Position tanks where homes and neighbours can see them but roads cannot. These steps aim to reduce theft risks.