Can surveillance and alarm systems really help prevent fuel theft
With the news that fuel theft is now at its highest levels in almost ten years, business owners and fleet operators all over the country are looking for the most effective ways to secure their fuel. It makes sense, therefore, that surveillance and alarms systems are amongst some of the most prominent options typically being considered, alongside options like our own fuel theft prevention devices here at TankSafe.
But with some thieves growing ever bolder, lots of fleet operators are asking the question: how effective are surveillance and alarms systems at preventing fuel theft altogether?
Can alarm systems really help?
In a word: yes. There are a lot of good reasons why surveillance and alarms systems are widely considered to be the bread-and-butter security measures against fuel theft, especially for large commercial businesses who may find themselves otherwise vulnerable to being targeted by outside opportunists, or even organised gangs, or even their own employees. Now, we should stress that gangs are involved in comparatively few cases – the vast majority of fuel theft is typically committed by a company’s own employees, who see skimming diesel as a victimless crime, and in some cases even a perk of the job.
For all three demographics though, a robust CCTV and alarm system is likely to give most prospective thieves serious pause, even the most determined ones. For the vast majority of prospective fuel thieves, this kind of security system will work as an excellent deterrent – passing opportunists are typically particularly prone to deterrents, as the temptation only exists for as long as they can see easy ways to get in and out, without drawing too much attention. CCTV and alarms pose dual threats that bring the risk of major exposure, and for most would-be thieves, it’s simply not worth the effort.
The same goes for internal company employees, who typically won’t think of the act as stealing, and would similarly be horrified at the idea of being labelled as a thief or criminal. Installing a strong security system can help send an unequivocal message to your staff that you view skimming as a criminal offence, and you’re treating it accordingly. That can play a major part in helping them to take it equally seriously (whether they like it or not), again fulfilling its role as an effective deterrent. And of course, in addition to its value as a deterrent, in the worst case scenario, your security system can also help you catch any perpetrators, should they choose to risk proceeding regardless.
In fact, that brings us neatly onto our next point – sometimes, these types of security systems aren’t enough on their own. While they can deter the vast majority of prospective fuel thieves, there are still those who may not be as easily daunted by their presence, such as career criminals, or people in small groups who may egg each other on. And while these types of perpetrators are involved in a relatively small number of cases, they can understandably still be a cause for concern. That’s exactly where we come in here at TankSafe.
How TankSafe Optimum helps keep your fuel safe
Here at TankSafe, your fuel security is our top priority – and in today’s economic climate, we know that it’s never been more important. Security systems are excellent deterrents, but they work primarily on the threat of consequences. If prospective thieves don’t care about that, or haven’t spotted the cameras or alarms, then the only way to stop them from there is to physically prevent them from extracting the fuel.
That’s exactly what TankSafe Optimum does. It’s the only fuel security device that offers 3-in-1 protection – stopping fuel spills, overfilling, and all fuel theft. It does this by means of a unique patented design centred around a locking float valve. This means that when the tank is 98% full, the system locks, isolating the fuel in the tank and making it practically impossible to steal.
That means you can enjoy:
100% protection against fuel siphoning
A potential reduction in fuel bills by up to 15%
A typical return on investment of 3-6 weeks
Plus. when TankSafe Optimum is deployed alongside an array of complementary security measures – including a robust camera and alarm system – that helps you to enjoy maximum peace of mind.
And of course, if you’ve ever got any questions about our TankSafe Optimum, or indeed any of our fuel security devices, one of our team is always on hand to help. TankSafe Shield is used by courier giant DPD and is the shortest, strongest, and most secure anti-siphon on the market, while TankSafe Optimum is trusted by Ford, Mercedes, Volvo, Iveco, and thousands of truck fleets around the world. You can find answers to some of the most common questions over on our FAQs page. If you’ve still got queries, our experts will be happy to resolve them - feel free to give us a quick call on 01253 400 401, and we’ll be happy to help however we can!