Clare Gardaí are urging business owners and employees to be vigilant in an effort to prevent drive-offs from filling station forecourts.
This type of crime, which involves people leaving the premises without paying for goods or fuel is typically more prevalent over the winter months.
Employees are advised to be on the look out for vehicles using the farthest pump island, the driver remaining behind the wheel while the passenger fills up, car doors left open or registration plates that are hidden or appear altered.
Sergeant Edel Burke from Kilrush Garda Station says there are a number of steps retailers can take to prevent this type of crime.
“Ensure forecourt lighting and CCTV coverage are optimal, ensure the view onto the forecourt is clear and unobstructed and ask all customers if they have purchased fuel when they approach tills to pay.
“Do not release petrol to vehicles that have their licence plates obscured from view or to drivers of vehicles who have their faces obscured and ensure that staff are looking out for suspicious activity at the petrol pumps
“Display clear CCTV signage to help deter offenders, regularly service, repair and clean CCTV cameras and ensure that CCTV images are recording on to a form of data storage.
“Ensure that staff are trained and aware of this crime reduction advice.
“Request pre-payment and at quieter trading times, close off pumps farthest from shop.
