The increased market value of copper continues to attract thieves who are putting their lives in jeopardy, and the Northern Indiana Public Service Company is supporting legislation in Indiana which provides stricter penalties for metal theft.

“The number and frequency of copper wire thefts is directly tied to the market value of copper,” Jim Miller, manager of corporate security for NIPSCO, said in a statement released on Thursday. “We see horrifying evidence where thieves break into substations and steal ground wires from energized equipment, resulting in series injury to themselves and sometimes even in death.”

On several occasions, NIPSCO said, thieves have put their lives in grave danger while stealing or attempting to steal from high-voltage energized equipment. “In a couple of cases, we searched the perimeter of our property, fearing the thief was seriously wounded or fatally injured, given the extent of damage inside our facility after an attempted burglary.”

In addition to putting themselves in danger, metal thieves often cause damage to electric facilities, which can result in extensive power outages, explosions, fires, and other service disruptions for customers. In one case, NIPSCO said, metal thieves attempting to steel copper cables from a NIPSCO substation gained access using the top of a wooden shipping crate as a makeshift ladder. “An explosion occurred, scorching the insulators and sending metal shrapnel flying in every direction. The attempt resulted in significant financial losses and forced unplanned customers outages to compete necessary repairs.”

“Amendments to the Indiana Code now allow for Class C felony charges—up from Class D—to be brought against those stealing metal from utilities and dealers who buy metal that is stolen from utilities, hospitals, healthcare facilities, telecommunications providers, and other key facilities,” NIPSCO said. “It also adds the requirement for scrap dealers to take a photo of the individuals selling metal and the material they are trying to sell.”

NIPSCO cautions anyone from entering electric facilities and cutting any wires from electric poles or equipment. Warning signs are prominently displayed on the fencing surrounding electric substations, due to the high voltage used in the substations.

Never enter a substation and do not touch any electrical equipment, power lines, or any items which may be in contact with a power line, as attempting to cut or remove wiring is highly dangerous.

NIPSCO encourages customers to contact local law enforcement and the company in the event of any suspicious activity taking place at the substations or around other facilities.

Posted 10/9/2009