Copper Wire Theft
Help Anonymously Report and Solve Crime in Our Community
1-800-222-8477
or
(519) 258-TIPS
http://www.catchcrooks.com
Incidents of copper wire and aluminum theft are rising all across the nation, including Windsor. One of the primary locations that these elements are stolen from is electricity distribution lines. When theft occurs, EnWin not only has to replace the costly materials, but must also respond to power outages (if they occur as a result), cover additional maintenance expenses, and deal with diminished system reliability.
While copper wire can be appealing to thieves who sell the metal for scrap, it is extremely dangerous and can result in serious injury or death. Burglars will often climb power poles, scale fences and break into buildings just to obtain a few dollars worth of metal; all of these lines hold a deadly charge.
Here are some guidelines to follow in helping to prevent copper theft in your community:
- Never enter or touch equipment inside a substation; stay away from power lines and anything touching a power line.
- If you notice anything unusual with electric facilities, such as an open substation gate, open equipment or hanging wire, contact EnWin Utilities immediately.
- If you see anyone around electric substations or electric facilities other than utility personnel or contractors, call the police.
- Install motion-sensor lights on the outside of your house and business to deter possible thieves.
- Store tools and wire cutters in a secure location, and never leave them out while you are away.
- If you work in construction, do not leave any wires unattended or leave loose wire at the job site, especially overnight.
