There are thieves out there who try to make quick cash by stealing copper, that reddish orange metal that many utilities need in order to provide things like electricity and broadband. However, these thieves may sacrifice more than they gain, since stealing copper can cause serious injuries or death. If they are caught, copper thieves also face hefty fines and prison time.
Thieves may think of it as a crime that won’t hurt anybody. They also may not care. The truth is that tampering with electrical equipment or attempting to steal copper can harm many people.
Those who steal copper are not only risking their own lives, but also the safety and well-being of others.
The FBI attributes copper theft to disruptions in the flow of the following: electricity, telecommunications, transportation, water supply, heating, security and emergency services. It presents a risk to both public safety and national security. Common targets for copper theft include farm equipment, air conditioners, abandoned buildings, construction sites and electric utility equipment, including substations and power poles.
How homeowners can help
- If you notice anything unusual with electric facilities, such as an open substation gate, open equipment, hanging wire and so on, contact your electric utility immediately.
- For empty homes, install lighting systems that operate using a timer to make the property a less likely target. For all homes, install motion-sensor lights on the outside of the house to deter possible thieves, even beyond copper.
- Store tools and wire cutters in a secure location and never leave them out while away.
How businesses can help
- Eliminate or secure all external access to buildings and roofs.
- Remove items that allow for easy access to buildings, such as ladders, scaffolds, trees, dumpsters and accumulated materials, such as pallet piles.
- Install security cameras and alarm systems. The location and the type of object will determine what kind of surveillance is needed. For example, for heating and cooling units, there are alarms that are triggered if the unit stops working.
- Install fences and lighting fixtures around areas that contain valuable objects such as air conditioners. The amount of copper in most commercial air conditioners is never worth a great amount, but the real cost is paid by the owner of the unit.
- Most copper theft takes place during nights or weekends. Hiring staff or security personnel to monitor your facility during these periods can greatly reduce the chances of a serious loss.
Regardless, if you see any suspicious activity, report it. Copper theft can affect more than the person stealing it. Detecting and reporting illegal activity could help save a life, whether an innocent bystander or even the thief. For more electrical safety information, visit SafeElectricity.org.
