Just within the last three months, the Riverside County Sheriff's Department received 23 gasoline theft reports at its Indio station, according to a release issued yesterday.

The majority of these thefts occurred at a residence with gasoline being siphoned out of the gas tank and no damage being done to the vehicles. In two cases, both occurring at closed businesses, damage was caused to vehicles when thieves drilled holes in gas tanks and cut fuel lines to steal gasoline.

The Department released a set of tips advising the public on how to prevent people from stealing gas out of your car...

• Park your vehicle in a locked garage, if you have one. Don't leave your vehicle on the street, in an alley, or on your driveway if at all possible. If you have to park on a street, avoid dark or isolated areas.



• Park in open, well lighted, areas where others can see your vehicle. Avoid parking near trucks, vans, dumpsters, and other objects that obstruct visibility and provide hiding places.



• If possible, don't leave your vehicle in an unattended public lot for an extended period time, and avoid parking near strangers loitering or sitting in vehicles.



• Make sure all doors and windows are locked



• Install an alarm system that will sound when someone attempts to break in, move, tilt, or start your vehicle. Always activate the system when leaving the vehicle.



• Buy and use a locking gas cap. These can be purchased at most auto supply stores and department stores with an automotive section.



• Report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.

Labels: Theft