The world price of oil may have dropped, but it seems local thieves can't resist the temptation of free fuel.
Monday, a farmer contacted Perth County OPP to report that thieves had drained about 400 litres of regular gasoline from his bulk fuel tank sometime between 11 p.m. Sunday and 7 a.m. Monday.
Police say the suspects cut the chain and lock of the tank to gain access to the fuel at the farm located along Line 71 west of Atwood.
A vehicle with a tank inside or a pickup truck with a tank in the box may have been used to take away the fuel.
Police note that bulk tank fuel thieves tend to target tanks that are not well lit, and are in locations not visible from homes or roads.
So as not to attract attention, access to the bulk tanks is often gained by driving across lawns and cultivated fields.
Here are a few tips that might stop you from being targeted.
If you have bulk fuel stored on your property ensure you lock the tank and or dispenser to prevent access. Ensure the power to the pump is shut off.
Locate your bulk fuel tanks in illuminated areas within view of residences.
Call the police IMMEDIATELY if you witness suspicious activity in an area where fuel is stored, or if you see a suspicious vehicle driving around with no lights on.
Pay extra attention to suspicious pickup trucks having fuel tanks behind the cab or jerry cans in the box that are driving around rural roads near your farm.
Be a good witness, record descriptions of suspicious persons and vehicles. If a license plate is observed, write it down and call the police right away.
A dog that barks when strangers enter onto your property is also a good way to alert you to possible fuel thieves.
If strangers enter onto your farm during the day, be weary, as they may be scoping out your property.
The Perth County OPP is requesting anyone who may have information about this theft to contact them at 1-888-310-1122 or to call CRIME STOPPERS at 1-800-222-8477, and you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.