Debbie Doucette said the camp will be trying to find a way to secure the oil tanks. (CBC)

A P.E.I. charity camp for underprivileged children discovered about $2,600 worth of heating oil was stolen last week, and the RCMP say it's just one example of an increase in heating oil thefts.

Staff members at the Oak Acres Children's Camp were shocked when they discovered the thefts. About 2,000 litres of oil were taken from several tanks.

"It's very disappointing to think that increasing fuel costs today, that people find [they are so] desperate to come in and steal oil from a charity," said Debbie Doucette of Oak Acres.

Staff found a hose and gas can near the site that they believe were used in the theft.

The eastern P.E.I. camp opened in 1970. It operated sporadically until 1993, when the Charlottetown-based D. P. Murphy company took it on as a major sponsor, and it has opened every year since. Doucette the camp will have to do some extra fundraising this year.

Farmers are keeping a closer eye on their diesel supplies, said RCMP Const. Doug Baker

The RCMP on P.E.I. say as oil prices climb — they have gone from 88.7 per litre cents to $1.17 this year — they are hearing more stories similar to what happened at Oak Acres.

"We're certainly seeing a rise in fuel theft crimes from local businesses and even residences around our district," said Const. Doug Baker of Montague RCMP.

Farmers have also been targeted, in particular for the diesel used in farm equipment. Diesel prices have jumped from $1.13.5 per litre to $1.47 this year.

"I've actually been approached and been advised that some farmers are cutting back on the amount of fuel that their leaving in their equipment as it's unattended," said Baker.

The RCMP are advising people to keep an eye on their fuel supplies and to try to find a way to lock their tanks.