Copper theft is a constant, costly and dangerous issue for our community. Each year, The City's utility infrastructure is targeted by thieves for the copper wire within. Often, the cost to repair or replace the damage caused by thieves far outweighs the value of the copper stolen. To discourage thieves, The City has invested in several deterrents including replacing grounding cables with copper-clad steel, which has little salvage value, increasing security with additional barricades, lighting and alarms, and increased surveillance and inspection of sites. 

Despite these efforts, copper theft continues to rise, costing The City thousands of dollars a year, and putting people at risk of electrocution. Additionally, this theft can disrupt essential services to residents and cause damage within households.

By learning about the commonly-targeted utility equipment and how to report incidences, you can help provide additional surveillance on our community's assets.

Targeted Equipment

Use the information below to learn what looks right and wrong when it comes to Red Deer's electric utility equipment.

	Burns, pry marks, opened infrastructure or cut wires are tell-tale signs that illegal activity has taken place. If you see something that looks suspicious, report it to The City so employees can inspect the infrastructure and ensure equipment is repaired and safe for our community.
	Cut wires can pose a serious risk to the public, as it can still be energized. If you see cut downleads (wires running along power poles), stay away and report it to The City immediately.
	The City has invested in creating more barriers to accessing utility services and added surveillance and inspections. With around 400 pieces of electric infrastructure, you can help prevent theft by keeping an eye on your neighbourhood's utility infrastructure.
	All City of Red Deer employees must be wearing CORD-branded workwear. Thieves may disguise themselves to look like they’re part of a normal crew as they attempt to access utilities. If you see suspicious-looking people around utility infrastructure, report it.
	Legitimate work is easy to spot. It includes large equipment, several workers and safety practices that are obvious to passersby.

Who to call

• Crimes in action: If you see something suspicious underway - report it right away by calling police. Catching thieves in the act is our best defense. Use 9-1-1 for crimes in progress or suspicious behaviour around utility infrastructure,
• Damaged or exposed utility equipment: If something looks damaged, tampered with or you see exposed wiring, call the Electric Utility department immediately at 403-342-8274. This number is monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Safety Reminders

Stay far away from any exposed wires, downed cables, or opened utility boxes. When energized services are vandalized, not only is there potential for injury and death to those committing the crime, but also to workers and innocent people who may come upon exposed infrastructure.