Heating Oil Security: The theft of heating oil not only hits families in the pocket, but can also mean they are left without any heat and hot water. Furthermore, there is also a very real risk of an environmental pollution incident, together with clean up costs, which potentially can stretch well into five figures. As well as homes and businesses, churches, schools and community buildings, which use heating oil are also a potential target for thieves. Here are a few Tips: 1) Keeping gates closed and securely locked. 2) Ensuring gates and fences are in good repair. 3) Where possible, the installation of CCTV and / or, a good quality alarm and security lighting. 4) Use fencing or shrubs to hide your heating oil tank from view… Remembering there are legally enforceable minimum clearance distances between heating oil tanks and adjacent structures. 5) Regularly checking heating oil levels so you can easily spot if the level drops. 6) Remote electronic oil level gauges can be fitted, which set off an audible alarm if the oil level in the tank suddenly drops. 7) Check your oil is covered by your household or business insurance… if it’s not consider amending your policy.