News

Copper Theft Threatens Lives

January 23, 2012

Thefts of copper, bronze, aluminum, and bronze are on the rise, at abandoned commercial buildings, empty homes, and—most dangerously—at power substations near neighborhoods. Blue Grass Energy needs your help to keep our equipment safe, prevent outages, and save lives.

“To a would-be thief, stealing copper may seem like a quick way to make a buck,” says Cathryn Gibson, Vice President, Marketing & Communications at Blue Grass Energy. “But it’s illegal, it’s costly, and it’s not worth a life. Working with any metal and electricity is a dangerous combination, even for trained employees using proper equipment.”

Our linemen are highly trained professionals who understand the dangers of working with electricity and take proper safety precautions. To protect the public we surround our substations with secure fencing and post warning signs. However, some thieves are not deterred.

Please help us prevent these thefts. If you notice anything unusual, such as an open substation gate, open equipment, or hanging wire, call Blue Grass Energy at 888-546-4243. If you see anyone other than utility personnel or contractors around substations or other electric facilities, call the police.

Follow these guidelines to guard against electrical dangers and prevent copper theft.

• 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 your electric co-op immediately.
• If you see anyone around electric substations or electric facilities other than co-op personnel or contractors, call the police.
• Install motion-sensor lights on the outside of your house and business to deter possible thieves.
• Keep tools and wire cutters in a secure location.