Jul. 24--Sheetz gas stations will introduce "Pump First" cards at Pennsylvania gas stations this fall, spokeswoman Monica Jones said.

The Pump First cards are being introduced at all locations chainwide to help cut down on gas theft, Jones said. Customers who want to pay for their gas with cash or a check will be required to register for one of the cards.

There's no cost to register; customers must supply the information found on their driver's licenses, Jones said.

Gas pumps at Sheetz will be activated only when either a credit, debit or Pump First card is swiped. After pumping, customers then pay inside with cash as they normally would, Jones said.

The main reason for the Pump First card is to make it easier to find those who drive off without paying, Jones said.

"If you decide to steal, we can come find you," Jones said.

Although gas theft has not been a widespread problem, Jones said, there are pockets in certain areas that have gotten significantly worse as prices have gone up.

Northern York Area Regional Police Lt. Mark Bentzel said that, locally, there has not been a significant increase in drive-offs, but he was interested to hear about the new Sheetz program.

"The cost of theft can only be absorbed for so long," Jones said. "Whether gas is 50 cents or $4, the same number of people are going to steal, but lately it's gotten to the point where they think they need to take action."

The Pump First card is being used in Hagerstown and Frederick,

Md., and in stores in parts of Virginia and West Virginia.

There have been few issues and people don't have many complaints, Jones said. jmilcetich@ydr.com; 771-2029

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