Electrical Safety Authority and London Hydro Partner to Tackle Copper Theft and Protect Ontario Communities
November 13, 2026
The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) and London Hydro have partnered to launch Copper Theft Toolkit: Understanding Safety Risks and Community Impacts, a free communications toolkit developed collaboratively to help communities recognize the dangers, raise awareness and safely report suspicious activity. Copper theft is an ongoing safety concern that puts Ontarians at risk, damages essential infrastructure and imposes significant costs on communities.
Copper theft is more than a property crime. When copper is stolen from electrical systems, live equipment can be exposed, creating a risk of electrical shock, burns, electrocution and fire. Hazards are not always visible and can remain after a theft has occurred, putting members of the public, utility workers and first responders at risk. Damage to electrical infrastructure can also disrupt electricity, telecommunications and other essential services that homes, businesses and public facilities rely on every day.
The impact of copper theft is being felt across Ontario. Since 2015, 46 electrical safety incidents involving copper theft have been reported to the ESA. Last year alone, London Hydro reported more than $1.1 million in copper-theft-related costs, including expensive repairs and additional theft-prevention measures.
“Copper theft can have serious and even deadly consequences. It puts utility workers, first responders and the public at risk and can damage the electrical infrastructure communities depend on every day,” said Josie Erzetic, President and CEO, Electrical Safety Authority. “Our partnership with London Hydro is an example of how we can work collaboratively to raise awareness, empower communities and help Ontarians before tragedy strikes.”
“At London Hydro, safety comes first, for our employees and for the community we serve,” said Ysni Semsedini, CEO, London Hydro. “Copper theft affects everyone, and a well-informed public is one of the most important partners we have. This toolkit gives utilities, municipalities and other partners simple, ready-to-use resources to help get that message out to customers and communities.”
Three things everyone should know about copper theft
- Know the Risks: Copper theft can create electrical hazards that can seriously injure or kill people.
- Understand the Impact: Damage can affect critical infrastructure, service reliability and entire communities.
- See Something, Say Something: If you notice suspicious activity around electrical infrastructure, stay back 10 metres and report suspicious activity to local authorities.
Recent federal legislation with the passing of the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act (Bill C-14) has brought renewed attention to crimes involving essential infrastructure, including copper theft. While legislative measures aim to strengthen accountability, preventing injuries also requires public awareness, vigilance and collaboration.
ESA and London Hydro are encouraging local utilities, municipalities, police services, telecommunications providers and other organizations impacted by copper theft to help strengthen community awareness by using and sharing the toolkit and its safety messages.
The free resources can be adapted for local websites, newsletters and social media channels.
Download the free Copper Theft Toolkit at: ESAsafe.com/CopperTheft.
