DORSET households are being reminded to protect their oil tanks from thieves as evidence emerges that theft of heating oil is rising. 

Around 18,000 homes in the county are not connected to the gas grid and instead rely on oil to heat their homes.

But heating oil is usually stored in an outdoor tank - making the fuel an attractive target for criminals.

There are also concerns the cost-of-living crisis has led to the increase in heating oil theft from rural homes, according to a report by agricultural insurance company NFU Mutual. 

In response, OFTEC, a registration body for off gas grid heating, is raising awareness of the precautions that households in Dorset can take to safeguard their tanks.

These include installing an electronic tank alarm system to remotely monitor the fuel in your tank, while motion-activated security lights are another cost-effective option. 

A strong and weather-resistant padlock is also recommended by the organisation.

Malcolm Farrow, of OFTEC, said: “While it’s still relatively rare, it’s concerning evidence pointing to an increase in heating oil theft, particularly during a freezing cold winter. 

"Most criminals are opportunists, so a few simple measures to make access to your tank more difficult is often more than enough to prevent theft from taking place."

More information about oil tanks can be found on the OFTEC website at www.oftec.org