Are High Gas Prices Causing Crime at the Pump?

Three Simple Ways to Out-Smart Criminals

The trickle effect is alive and well where it regards escalating gasoline prices. Not only have Americans begun readjusting their lifestyles to accommodate their hungry gas tanks; criminals too, have started employing a bit more creativity where it regards victims of theft. According to a report on WSBTV.com, thieves are now targeting unsuspecting customers while they're at the pump. The report goes on to explain that while the customers are inside the store, filling up their tanks, thieves quickly swoop in, removing the gas nozzle and filling their own cars with it. One customer recalls seeing 8 more gallons of gas pumped than his car actually holds---padding his payment by about $32.

Reports of gas siphoning are also becoming more popular as gasoline prices continue to rise. This reputed method of stealing gas has made a comeback in communities where the prices tip the scales at $4.00 and above. And still there are even more creative crimes being revealed, with two Connecticut men being caught stealing 100 gallons of gasoline by manipulating the pump's electronic device. Indeed, the cost of fuel has encouraged all sorts of criminal activity at gas stations. The typical rules apply where it regards personal safety at fueling stations. But in light of these innovative crimes, there are probably a few things you can to keep out of harm's way.

Parking

It may sound silly, but carjackers do a fair amount of observing before they pinpoint their targets. One of the things they're looking for is an easy "out." Try making your car "inconvenient" to steal (or steal from). When choosing a gas pump, attempt to locate one on the interior of the filling station if possible. Be aware of who's milling around. People who look like loiterers may in fact be a part of a carjacking team of sorts. Some criminals are going as far as puncturing gas tanks in order to get to that precious liquid inside. So, it would behoove you to position your car in such a way that it's difficult for thieves to be seen without a large audience.

The Obvious