Gas and diesel prices are rising again, leading to an increase nationally in the number of thieves stealing fuel from parked vehicles. The method? Drilling & Draining say experts, when thieves crawl underneath the car or truck, punch or drill a hole in the fuel tank and collect the gas or diesel in a bucket, can or milk jug.
And if you drive a pickup truck or a vehicle with a higher ground clearance, it is especially vulnerable!
Experts suggest protecting your vehicle:
-Park in well-lit visible areas or inside a secure garage whenever possible.
- Install a dashcam with parking-mode recording and motion detection situated on the side/rear of the vehicle where the fuel tank is located.
-Consider installing a fuel-tank shield or skid plate, which is a steel or aluminum plate that covers the fuel tank. These cost between $200 and $800 depending on the size and metal used.
And if you suspect your tank has been drilled and drained by smelling a strong odor of gasoline or diesel when you approach your vehicle, do not start it and alert police.
Chris Malone