PUC Services and Sault Police Warn of Copper Theft Dangers

Sault Ste. Marie, ON (October 23, 2026) — PUC Services Inc. and Sault Ste. Marie Police Service remind residents that copper theft from utility equipment poses serious safety risks, power interruptions, and costly repairs.

Despite the numerous monitoring and preventive measures PUC has put in place to prevent copper theft, the number of thefts continue to rise locally, in line with a growing trend across Canada. PUC urges its customers to assist in keeping our community safe by reporting any suspicious activity around utility infrastructure to the police immediately.

“Utility infrastructure is essential to provide safe and reliable service to our community,” said Janis Gartshore, Manager, Safety & Environment. “Removing copper from utility equipment puts the individual involved, the public and our crews at risk.”

How To Stay Safe 

Copper theft and vandalism can expose energized equipment and damage the electricity system. If you see a downed or hanging wire, damaged electrical enclosure, or suspicious activity near poles, substations, transformers, or streetlights:

• Stay back and never touch the equipment.
• Treat every wire as energized.
• Never confront someone suspected of theft; report it instead.
• Call 911 for an immediate public safety threat or crime in progress.
• Contact the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service non-emergency line if you observe suspicious activity around utility panels, construction sites, or commercial properties

“Stealing copper and damaging property are criminal offences, but the consequences can be far more serious than criminal charges,” said Inspector Jason Rains of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service. “Tampering with electrical equipment can result in serious injury or death and put others at risk. We encourage anyone who witnesses suspicious activity around electrical infrastructure to report it to police and keep a safe distance.” 

PUC Services Inc. is committed to maintaining the safety of the communities we serve and the reliability of the services we provide. We appreciate the community’s support in protecting local infrastructure and helping keep everyone safe during this time.

PUC Services Inc. media contact:
Lauren MacGillivray
Manager, Corporate Communications

Sault Ste. Marie Police Service media contact:
Lincoln Louttit
Manager, Corporate Communications, Planning & Research