U-Haul Copes with Gas Theft

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By Ryan Simms

Story Published: Mar 7, 2010 at 8:31 PM PDT

YAKIMA -- Moving vans are quickly becoming moving targets for gas thieves.

With a watchful eye, Roland Lewis isn't taking any chances, especially when it comes to gas theft.

"We're serious. We have security... we have people here almost all the time," he says.

Those measures come after brazen moves from gas thieves. They've targeted Lewis' trucks twice.

He isn't alone. Yakima's largest U-Haul renter has also been targeted. In many cases, thieves are looking to score free gas from an easy source.

"Gas is a commodity," Lewis tells Ryan Simms. "People can dispose of it quickly."

"Quickly," but still harmful because of the threat of explosion.

It could also be pretty damaging to your bank account. Like a lot of companies, U-Haul requires you to pay for your own gas. If it gets stolen, you could be paying more than $130.

To make sure you're not in that situation, always use moving vans that have lockable gas caps. It's also a good idea to park in populated, well-lit areas.

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