CHESHIRE NOVEMBER 2009
Gardien, the UK's No1 garden security experts, are warning householders and the farming community to be on their guard against criminals targetting central heating and vehicle fuel tanks in farmyards as the cost of diesel escalates.
Bill Seddon, MD of Gardien says, "This is not a new problem but an old one that has come back to haunt us. We last saw a rapid rise in this type of offence when international oil prices hit record levels and we witnessed transport demonstrations across the country. Whilst we are not yet receiving reports in the volume that we saw previously indications are that the theft of fuel, in particular diesel, is starting to be encountered in different parts of the country. This is especially so in rural areas and we would strongly advise people with easily accesible tanks in either their gardens or yards to re-visit their security and insurance cover. This type of crime is preventable".
Gardien recommends that site access should be reviewed ensuring that no vehicle can get within close proximity to the tank without consent. Improved perimeter security can easily be achieved with good quality lockable gates or a much more cost effective way is to install collapsible pillars on the access road. The vicinity of the tank should be well lit with a good quality security light and the filler cap secured with a strong industrial, insurance rated padlock. On commercial premises the handset for filling vehicles should also be secured with a padlock when not in use. Where the property has an intruder alarm installed the tank should have an integrated tamper switch attached to the tank to create an alarm situation when an attempt is made to gain access. On larger sites CCTV should be considered. Gardien also advises that good quality crime prevention signage should be displayed to deter the opportunist.
Bill Seddon again, "With winter upon us, the onset of serious inclement weather, the rising cost of fuel and a country still in the grips of recession, we see the potential for this type of crime to increase along with other incidents of garden crime. We strongly advise people to take time out to carry out a comprhensive review of their external and garden security provision. Garden Clubs and Allotment Associations should organise themselves in the same way as the domestic and farming community are doing with Neighbourhood Watch and Farm Watch schemes. Even Schools are vulnerable or indeed anywhere where a fuel tank may be sited. We would recommend consideration, where possible, of siting the tank in a well secured steel shed.
The Gardien website www.garden-security.co.uk is acknowledged as the most comprehensive resource for advice an all matters relating to garden crime and is supported by the Police, Crime Prevention and Community Safety practitioners. It has sections covering crime prevention advice,retrieval of goods, a Free downloadable inventory checklist, insurance advice and a range of high quality accredited and Police approved security products.
For further information please contact Bill Seddon on 0161 928 0854 or e mail bill@garden-security.co.uk
© Gardien Ltd. November 2009