Over the Christmas period and beyond, Devon and Cornwall Police's Rural Affairs team has advised on the growing issue of rural crime, focussing this month on fuel and battery theft.

Why is this important?

On farms, fuel and batteries are one of the most likely things to be targeted by criminals. Thefts often increase during the longer nights with the extended cover of darkness giving more opportunities. Unprotected tanks can be emptied in minutes using basic methods causing both financial and emotional impacts on farmers and businesses.

What do you need to do?

Reduce fuel theft with simple crime prevention measures. Working together, land owners, rural businesses and members of the public should be vigilant reporting any suspicious activity to the police - noting vehicle details, descriptions and an accurate location.

How can you prevent this?

-Landowners and managers, where possible, should secure gates and block unused entrances.

-Protect fuel and batteries with locks, lighting, CCTV and fencing.

-Store machinery, tanks and batteries out of sight where possible.

-Consider the use of signage or other means to prevent cold callers to farms and businesses.

-Notify the police using 999 if you suspect an offence is being committed.

-If you have any information regarding fuel and battery theft please email [email protected], call the non-emergency number, 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

-Join Devon & Cornwall Alert, Watch schemes and local social media groups so that you can find out what is happening in your area.

The Devon and Cornwall police rural affairs team have produced a calendar which highlights rural issues throughout the year to focus problem solving activity for police, partners and public with key messages and prevention activity.