With the value of copper and other precious metals increasing more than 700 percent in recent years, copper theft has become rampant throughout the United States and Canada. Utilities, contractors, businesses and cities are all feeling the burden of these crimes. In IID’s case, these thefts are costing the district and its ratepayers hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.

Starting in July, IID launched a community outreach program in which it is contacting local business owners, citizens and community organizations to enlist their vigilance and support. The utility is distributing posters and static cling window decals to local businesses in hopes of prompting the public to act.

IID stresses that metal theft is not a victimless crime. Direct losses include increasing costs to IID customers and greater wait times for new construction and needed maintenance projects. Indirect losses to IID and its customers not only create inconvenience, they have the potential to interrupt worker productivity and affect the general economy of the region. The larger issue surrounding metal theft is the danger it creates. Not only do thieves place themselves in harms way, but they also create situations that are not safe for IID employees.

Should you have information regarding a theft of IID property, we ask you to contact IID’s customer service department at 1-800-303-7756 – Option #2. Your help could be worth up to $2,500 for the arrest and conviction of a metal thief.

Anyone wishing to be involved in the public outreach program, or wanting more information is encouraged to contact IID’s communications team at 760-396-5697. Besides collateral material, newsletter inserts and posters, the utility will also arrange to have an IID spokesperson give a special metal theft presentation designed to spur greater community involvement.