POLICE are urging those with an oil fired central heating system to get alarms installed after a spate of thefts.

Officers say it may even be worthwhile installing security devices around a property to deter thieves.

The warning comes after a spate of thefts in the Purbeck area.

A spokesman for the police said: “Following a number of domestic fuel thefts in the Purbeck’s we advise anybody who has oil fired central heating to install an alarm. “There are many alarms available on the market which will alert you should your tank be targeted.”

He added: “It is also worthwhile installing security devices around your property to deter thieves from entering your home and garden in the first place as fuel tanks can be very expensive to repair or replace.”

Anyone that would like further advice on home security should contact their local Safer Neighbourhood Team via the Dorset Police website or call 101.