Tips to prevent cable theft

Jannie Kasselman, from Kasselman Security Services, shared tips to prevent cable theft. Kasselman indicated copper is used in electrical cabling as a great conductor of electricity.

“Unfortunately, copper has a high monetary value and is easy to steal,” he said.

“Cable theft is a problem in South Africa that costs us billions of rands a year. Cables are stolen from areas of opportunity and sold as scrap for money.”

He said without 24-hour security, there is no sure way to prevent cable thieves from striking.

There are a few tactics that could help deter them. Some of which involve installing:

• Security lights
Thieves generally thrive in darkness, relying on it to cover their tracks. Construction sites, especially at night, are one of the most common areas of cable theft. Although security lights may not physically chase the thieves away, they will make them think twice.

• Security cameras
Security cameras help to prevent cable theft, with the thought of being taped a common deterrent for thieves. If this does not stop them, you at least have footage of their faces and the crime to take to the police when asking for help.

• Warning signs
Placing electrocution warning signs around the property may prevent thieves. The mere thought of their lives being in danger may prevent them from entering your property.

• Solid fencing
A solid boundary around your property or construction site can stop prying eyes and unwanted access to your cables. Thieves usually skip properties that appear hard to access as they search for an easier target.

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