TasNetworks has asked vandals to stay away from electrical infrastructure, warning they could electrocute themselves and even die.
The blunt message follows a brazen copper theft attempt along Hobart’s Tasman Highway.
Thieves targeted electrical cables near Hobart Airport, cutting power to multiple streetlights and driver information boards seen by thousands of motorists every day.
“Attempting to steal copper or tampering with powerlines can and has killed people across the world,” TasNetworks said.
“Copper theft won’t make you much money, but it can mean that people don’t have power for essentials such as heating their homes, refrigerating their food or accessing medical equipment.”
TasNetworks said the damage also takes resources away from more essential work.
“Copper theft is dangerous, causes outages and diverts our people from managing, maintaining and upgrading our system.”
“Ultimately, it could cost you your life.”
The affected signs have since been repaired and police are investigating.
“If you see anyone acting suspiciously, interfering with or stealing TasNetworks equipment, please contact Tasmania Police,” TasNetworks said.
