PEOPLE with oil tanks are being encouraged to keep an eye on them for both security and to protect the environment.

Both the Forest and Monmouthshire councils have warned that oil thieves are about, while they also state owners should make regular checks to see their tanks are not leaking.

Leaks are not only costly in terms of lost oil but also the environment, which has to be cleaned up satisfactorily and can impact on neighbouring properties.

Recently some leaks from oil tanks and pipes have been reported to the Forest of Dean District Council as well as thefts of heating oil reported to the police.

The council and Gloucestershire Police are offering guidance to help local people to protect their oil tanks.

Haydn Brookes, environmental protection and licensing manager at Forest of Dean District Council said: "With winter here it's important to keep an eye on your oil tank and pipework. If the oil level goes down quickly it could be a sign of a leak which can cost a lot of money – not only for the replacement of the oil, but for the clean up.

"It's worth checking if your home insurance covers heating oil leaks as remedial works can be expensive and impact neighbours' properties too.

"We have information available to help local people who have oil tanks. This is available on our website http://www.fdean">www.fdean. gov.uk."

Between January and November this year 12 incidences of oil theft have been reported to the police with 17 incidents last year.

Crime reduction officer PC Bob Lloyd said: "Thefts of heating oil continue to be an issue in the Forest. Oil can be an attractive prospect for thieves, particularly when the price of crude oil is high.

"Thieves are known to target private houses, farms and businesses to steal oil, either to use it themselves or sell on for a profit.

"We would urge people to ensure they have suitable security arrangements in place to prevent this sort of crime. Full advice on this can be found on the website http://www.gloucestershire.police.uk.&quot">www.gloucestershire.police.uk."