March 2004
LAUNCH OF DUMBARTON & LOMOND FORECOURT WATCH

 

The 31st March 2004 saw the launch of the Dumbarton and Lomond "Forecourt Watch". Owners and staff from Petrol Stations across the area are working together in conjunction with the British Oil Security Syndicate (BOSS) and Strathclyde Police.

 

The scheme intends to reduce crime and other problems associated with petrol forecourts and associated shops.   Participating members see this as a pro-active rather than re-active approach to tackling the issue of forecourt crime.

 

Typical incidents that occur include:

 

•  Drive offs – thieves filling up with fuel and driving away without paying.

•  Physical and verbal abuse of staff.

•  Theft of merchandise from forecourt shops.

•  Fraud.

 

Forecourt Watch schemes are already established across the country, and have proved to be an effective tool in fighting forecourt crime. As well as reducing the number of incidents occurring on petrol forecourts the scheme helps to create a safer working and shopping environment for staff and customers. This is achieved by promoting:

 

•  An improved police / retailer partnership.

•  The sharing of good practice and intelligence, thus increasing the chances of tracing those responsible for the crimes.

•  The protection of staff and customers.

 

Each Petrol Station in the scheme is in communication with the other participants and will contact the next station in line in the event of an incident occurring on their premises; the information is then passed round the ring to all other Petrol Stations taking part in the scheme.

 

Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Mitch Roger voiced his support for

Forecourt Watch, "This is a fine example of co-operation and partnership working which will make local filling stations safer places for customers and employees. The sharing of information in relation to crimes and disorder should impact on crime associated with petrol stations".    

 

Kevin Eastwood, B.O.S.S Executive Director stated, "We are delighted to be working in partnership with Strathclyde Police at Dumbarton. It is recognised that criminals who drive off without paying for fuel from petrol stations are often involved in other types of crime. Forecourt Watch not only reduces forecourt crime, but is known to assist Police in reducing more serious forms of crime, as well as making petrol station shops safer for both customers and staff".

 

Formed in 1991 by the oil industry BOSS is steered and funded by the leading petroleum companies. BP, Esso, Shell Texaco and Total are members. It is supported by the Petrol Retailers Association (PRA), the United Kingdom Petroleum Industry Association (UKPIA), the Association of Payment Clearing Services (APACS) and the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO).

 

The aim of the organisation is to reduce the amount of crime taking place on Britain's service stations.