Boiler cover provider 247 Home Rescue comments on operation to tackle boiler thefts in Sheffield

SHEFFIELD, U.K. - June 9, 2014 - PRLog -- South Yorkshire Police Service and Sheffield City Council have launched Operation Kingbird in an attempt to deal with the issue of boiler thefts in the town.

This initiative involves hidden recording devices, bait houses, alarm systems and multi-disciplinary action in key targeted areas. SmartWater and Trackers will be fitted on to central heating systems to ensure they can be easily recovered if they are stolen.

Commenting on the initiative, Kevin Burke, representative of gas boiler breakdown cover company 247 Home Rescue, said:

"While the theft of boilers in Sheffield has cost the taxpayer hundreds of thousands of pounds, and has caused severe distress to hundreds of the most vulnerable people in the town, the health and safety risks of this kind of crime are also tremendous.

"Any work on gas boilers must be undertaken by Gas Safe-registered engineers, including their removal and installation.

"We are concerned that the theft of gas boilers could lead to gas leaks, fire and explosion. We are also worried that the stolen boilers may be sold to rogue traders and illegal gas fitters, who will install them in people's houses and put their unknowing customers in serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and other life-threatening conditions.

"Anyone stealing boilers, and anyone receiving and installing these stolen boilers, is putting people's lives in unnecessary danger for a quick buck.

"We wish Sheffield City Council and South Yorkshire Police the best of luck in clamping down on this dangerous and selfish criminality."

Notes for editors.

247 Home Rescue provides home emergency, appliance and boiler breakdown cover across the UK. Their website is http://www.247homerescue.co.uk.

Further details about Operation Kingbird can be seen here: http://www.southyorks.police.uk/news-syp/operation-launched-combat-boiler-thefts