North Wales Police warn Flintshire residents after heating oil theft report
North Wales Police have warned residents in and around Penymynydd to be vigilant after a heating oil theft was reported in the area.
The force is asking anyone with an oil tank to review their security arrangements.
The warning comes as heating oil prices reach their highest point in 12 months.
According to the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, the fuel is currently around 30% more expensive than it was a year ago, driven by disruption to global oil markets.
The UK industry trade body UKIFDA attributed the increase partly to the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for Middle East oil supplies, which pushed wholesale prices to their highest level in more than three years.
Because heating oil has no regulated price cap unlike gas and electricity, prices can rise sharply and quickly, leaving households with little protection from market movements.
North Wales Police have issued a list of steps residents can take to protect their tanks.
These include fitting a padlock or lockable filler cap, securing the tank with a cage, and installing lockable gates.
The force also recommends fitting an electronic gauge that activates an alarm when the oil level drops unexpectedly, installing security lighting near the tank, and fitting CCTV cameras.
Anyone who sees suspicious activity near an oil tank is asked to contact North Wales Police on 101.
In an emergency, or if a theft is in progress, call 999.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
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