Kauai seeing increase in gas thefts | The Honolulu Advertiser

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Kauai seeing increase in gas thefts | The Honolulu Advertiser | Hawaii's Newspaper

Posted on: Saturday, May 3, 2008

Kauai seeing increase in gas thefts

Advertiser Staff

Gas prices are up on Kaua'i. So are gas thefts.

Kaua'i police yesterday there's been a sharp increase in the number of gasoline thefts from vehicles at construction sites and base yards around the island. And they're worried that the trend will spill over into public areas.

"Unfortunately, as the price of fuel goes up, the likelihood that thieves will target accessible vehicles goes up, too," said Lt. Daniel Fort.

At two stations in Kaua'i yesterday, regular gasoline was selling for $3.93 per gallon.

Assistant Police Chief Roy Asher said the majority of thefts have been from construction sites, but companies have countered with increased security measures in recent days.

Now, police are concerned that the public might be the next target, he said.

Honolulu police have not noticed a similar increase in gas thefts, spokeswoman Michelle Yu said.

Kaua'i police said drivers can take a number of steps to avoid gasoline thefts:

While at home, park your vehicle in a locked garage.

If you park on the street, position your vehicle under street lighting or lighting from your home.

While away from home, park in well-lit and well-traveled locations where people can easily see your car.

Avoid parking in public parking lots for long periods of time.

When traveling off-island, instead of leaving your vehicle in a public lot, make arrangements to leave it at a friend's home and catch a ride to the airport.

Park your vehicle so that the fuel door can be easily seen from the road and avoid parking where your fuel door would be obscured by heavy landscaping, isolated corners or high walls.

Consider purchasing a locking gas cap.

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