It is important to lock anything that can be locked, including anti-theft fuel caps on machinery and pumps. Installing fences or CCTV where possible is another deterrent to potential thieves.
Drones are increasingly used by criminals to gather information and have emerged as a favourite tool for livestock thieves. Report suspicious activity, including drone sightings, to police.
Here is further information to help keep your fuel safe.
Lock it
- If it can be locked, lock it. If it can’t be locked, consider managing risks like isolated location or easy access. If thinking about locking options, consider if a $20 lock is adequate to protect $1,000 worth of fuel.
- Tanks, vehicles and machinery should be fitted with lockable fuel caps to deter access. Fit anti-theft fuel caps where possible (see fuel or farm equipment specialists for options best suited to heavy machinery that may be left overnight in isolated locations).
- The dispensing system including the pump outlets, nozzle, hose and valves should be locked when not in use. For above ground tanks, shield the hose and secure with a hardened cable lock to reduce siphoning or vandalism opportunities.
- The control switch to electronically controlled pumps should be located in a secure building and the electricity turned off when not in use.
- Consider installing an isolation switch in a hidden spot to immobilise the circuit.
Thoughtful fuel storage
If you are installing, upgrading or changing fuel storage tanks, consider these points:
- Install underground tanks. They’re better concealed and harder to steal fuel from.
- Above ground fuel storage tanks should be positioned in sight of the main residence and other storage sheds and if possible, concealed from view from the road.
- Install motion sensor lighting that illuminates the tank(s) and surrounding areas at night.
- Enclose the site with a lockable security fence/gate.
- Consider using battery/solar powered portable alarms or cameras controlled by your mobile on gates, tanks or machinery. Many can be fixed or mounted in various ways; permanent or temporary; using bolts, magnetic mounts or even cable ties.
- Dogs are aware, often before their owners, of the presence of strangers. Whether pets or working animals, dogs can be a good deterrent to intruders.
Monitor
- Fuel tanks should be dipped daily, and a flow meter installed to monitor fuel use.
- Mobile fuel tanks should only be filled when they are in use.
- Use a reputable fuel supplier and be present when deliveries are made.
- Maintain accurate records of fuel use and purchases, including quantities and delivery dates and times.
Park smart
- If able, park fuel trailers within sight of the main residence. If they have to be left in a paddock, then park as far away as possible from the road.
- Trailer wheels should be clamped, and the body chained and padlocked to a large tree or other firmly anchored object.
- Consider using battery operated portable alarms/GPS that can be monitored via your phone when fuel trailers have to be left in isolated locations.
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