OFTEC, the Oil Firing Technical Association, is alerting rural home owners across West Devon using oil-fired central heating to a potential problem caused by extreme weather conditions.

In some cases, central heating oil tanks may be at risk of becoming buoyant in floodwater and floating away, leaking oil and causing widespread pollution in the process.

A further risk is from high winds which can also dislodge a tank and break the supply line.

Tanks most susceptible are free-standing plastic tanks with a low level of oil. Any oil tanks in areas prone to flooding should be secured firmly to their base by strapping.

Homeowners are advised to have an OFTEC registered technician review their tank installation by visiting the website at http://www.oftec.org/Consumers/FindTechnician">www.oftec.org/Consumers/FindTechnician

Malcolm Farrow of OFTEC, said: 'Although there is normally a very small risk of this happening, unfortunately it can cause a lot of disruption.

'In light of current flooding and high winds we want to remind people to think about securing their oil tanks to prevent any problems.'