Gardaí in Donegal have recently appealed for information regarding a couple of incidents where heating oil was stolen from rural homes.

Gardaí stated that the thefts occurred in the Market Square area of Rathmullan between January 16 and 29.

Officers noted that the gardens of two neighbouring properties were entered and the oil was stolen from their tanks.

Following an investigation, one of the tanks was found to have been left unlocked, while the other tank had been locked but was cut open during the theft.

Gardaí in Milford have encouraged the public to contact them by calling 074-9153060 if they observed any type of suspicious activity, or possess doorbell camera/CCTV footage near the area, between those dates.

Additionally, individuals who wish to provide information anonymously can do so by dialling the garda confidential line, which is 1800 666 111.

Preventative measures

Gardaí outlined the following preventative measures homeowners can take to avoid the theft of home heating oil:

Apply a "good quality closed shackle padlock" to the tank opening;
Check oil levels frequently;
Try to arrange smaller but more frequent oil deliveries;
Install security lights, as they can make property a much harder target for thieves;
Place the tank as close to the house as regulations allow and in view of one or more windows - the risk of being seen may discourage potential thieves;
Ensure the tank is not visible from the road to passing traffic - planting shrubs or building a fence can help hide tanks from public view;
Consider fitting an alarm system that warns you if the oil level drops suddenly;
Be vigilant, especially after a delivery;
Be aware that thieves may return to steal replacement oil following an initial theft;
Always take note of suspicious vehicles’ registration numbers and suspicious activity and report to gardaí.

Rural burglaries

Separately, gardaí in Laois and Offaly have also advised homeowners on how they can help prevent rural thefts after a number of burglaries were reported locally recently.

While officers outlined that they are "actively working" to prevent further burglaries, local community members have been urged to do their part by staying vigilant and taking precautionary measures.

Gardaí stated: "As we come into the spring months, people naturally spend more time outdoors, working around their homes, farms, and gardens.

"Unfortunately, this can also create opportunities for crime if basic security is overlooked; in many burglaries, the most commonly stolen items are cash and jewellery, often taken quickly from accessible areas of the home.

In a social media post, gardaí highlighted the following precautionary measures homeowners can take to better protect themselves against burglaries:

Ensure all doors, windows and sheds are locked;
Remove keys from vehicles and machinery;
Secure tools and equipment when not in use;
Keep cash and jewellery out of sight or in a secure place;
Mark and record property;
Install external lighting and CCTV where appropiate;
Report suspicious behaviour promptly.

Commenting on the advice, gardaí added: "Good habits, neighbour awareness, and timely reporting all help to reduce opportunities for crime."

Individuals who see anything suspicious or have information regarding a theft in their community have been urged to contact gardaí immediately by dialling 999.