01/04/2026
We are aware of a recent report of heating oil theft in Scopwick.
With the rising cost of oil, we are concerned that this type of crime may become more common across the county. We encourage all residents with oil tanks to check them regularly to ensure they have not been tampered with.
These thefts can be difficult to detect—particularly as the weather gets warmer and fewer people rely on their heating. Changes in oil levels may go unnoticed, and while some victims may lose only a small amount, others may find their tank has been completely emptied. For this reason, we urge you to monitor your oil levels closely.
To help protect your property, we are sharing the following safety advice and ask that you pass it on to anyone who may not have access to our communication channels.
Security tips:
-Hide the location of your oil tank
-Fit the tank with a padlock or lockable filler cap
-Secure the tank within a cage
-Install lockable gates
-Fit an electronic gauge that can raise an alarm if oil levels drop
-Install security lights near the tank
-Fit CCTV cameras
Your home insurance may also cover heating oil theft, so make sure your policy offers protection should this happen to you.
Report it:
-If a crime is happening now, call 999. If you’re unsure, please call—we would rather assess the situation than miss a potential theft.
-If it is safe to do so, take photos of suspects or their vehicle’s number plate (do not approach them, as offenders have previously used violence).
-If you believe oil has been stolen, report it via 101 or online. This helps us build a clearer picture of how frequently these thefts are occurring and identify any areas of concern.
