Police have issued a warning about the dangers of stealing copper after a man suffered an electric shock while allegedly interfering with a low voltage power box at a property in Nairne, according to SA Police.
About 12.40pm on Saturday (10 September), police allege the 36-year-old Nairne man was attempting to remove copper from the box at a disused factory on Main Road, when he was shocked.
Although injured he was able to make it back to his home address. An ambulance was called and he was taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital for treatment.
Police from the Hills Fleurieu Local Service Area (LSA) will interview the man when he has recovered sufficiently and expect he will be charged with theft and unlawfully being on premises.
"Copper is not so valuable that you would risk your life for it," Superintendent Craig Wall, the officer in charge of the LSA, warned.
"Interference with electrical equipment is highly dangerous and may not only result in criminal prosecution, but severe injury or death. Simply put he is lucky to be alive.
"This is a timely warning to anyone stealing copper, the same danger applies with new buildings where wiring has not been completed.
"Theft is not the only offence you may commit, under the Electricity Act anyone interfering with electricity infrastructure can be jailed for up to two years or fined up to $10,000.
"They also would be liable for the costs associated with the restoration of supply and repair and or replacement of damaged equipment."
