PORT ANGELES — Clallam County PUD is asking for help after two of its substations were vandalized in the last two weeks.
On July 24, the lock to the gate of the Laird substation was cut and the gate left open, said Michael Howe, district No. 1 executive communications coordinator.
On July 28, a fence was cut and a door damaged at the Sunland substation.
“The reasons for the two recent incidents are not known, but they are an important matter to the PUD,” Howe said.
In both cases, there was no apparent theft and estimates of damages to the substations were less than $500, he said.
Vandalism costs money
“We are concerned, not just because vandalism of any nature costs our customers money, but also because there is a high risk of injury or death when an untrained person enters an electrical substation or attempts to work with other PUD facilities and equipment,” said Doug Nass, PUD general manager.
Utility facilities SEmD whether a substation, a meter on a home or elsewhere SEmD contain high-voltage systems and are very dangerous, Nass said.
It is important to keep out of electric substations, pump houses, facilities, equipment and buildings because of the high voltage.
Any vandalism or theft of PUD facilities can be costly and may set off extensive power and utility outages.
PUD priority
“Keeping power safe and affordable is a priority for the PUD,” said Nass.
“That is why we routinely inspect meters, equipment and facilities SEmD to ensure we’re doing our best to protect against the risks of theft and vandalism.”
Trespassing on PUD property and any kind of tampering or vandalism are criminal offenses, he said.
Offenders will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
“We are asking for the public’s help too,” said Nass.
Anyone who sees suspicious activity around PUD facilities should immediately notify authorities or phone 800-542-7859.