Who's Stealing Your Marine Fuel?

National estimates concerning marine fuel pilfering are scarce. The economy suggests that fuel theft should be more common. Yet, when I discuss the matter with those in the legal profession I most often hear that reporting such occasions to the authorities will result in higher insurance costs in the locale. Or, worse yet, even cause our marine insurance premiums to rise. Risk is risk and mitigation costs money.

The most frequent thefts occur when recreational vessels are in dry dock during the off season. This is so because the fuel tanks are elevated making siphoning all the more convenient…and often fewer eyes are on the laid-up boats.

A Survey May Help
Since I could not locate a statistical source to determine the depth of the problem perhaps Great Lakes Scuttlebutt magazine readers might help. If you have thoughts on the subject, or statistics regarding the pervasiveness of the theft problem, please email me at bobkne@yahoo.com with information along with the number of incidences witnessed and cost estimates. Perhaps, together we can design a solution supporting recreational boaters.  Thanks for your consideration!