THERE have been incidents reported across Mzansi in recent weeks involving attempts to steal petrol from cars.
And motorists can take steps to help protect the petrol inside their cars as thugs drill into a tank or siphon it out.
Fidelity Services Group CEO Wahl Bartmann said the price of petrol had jumped to a level never seen before, making it a valuable commodity. And devious characters would seemingly leave no stone unturned to steal it.
“Drivers and car owners can make basic changes to their behaviour to try and limit the chance of falling victim to this new trend,” Bartmann said.
He advised those who were fortunate enough to have access to their own off-street or secure parking to use the protection it offered.
This as leaving a car out of sight or behind a locked door could make it attractive to any would-be petrol thief.
He advised motorists to ensure that the garage had an alarm that picked up unauthorised movement and tested the gates and locks.
However, not everyone had access to their own secure parking.
Bartmann further said: “In cases where you park in the street or a public garage, try and park as close to an area where there is lighting and regular foot traffic. If you use the street, park as close to your home as possible. You can also park in such a way that your fuel cap is pointed into the street and not hidden from view. We also advise against leaving your car in one spot for an extended period. Never leave valuable items in a parked car.”
Vigilance and alertness, he added, remained important in any effort to combat crime.
