Thieves are stealing L.A. County fire hydrants by the hundreds. Utility is now trying to outsmart them

In parts of Los Angeles County, fire hydrants have become a hot item.

Thieves have stolen at least 302 hydrants since the start of 2023 in several areas of the county, according to Golden State Water Co.

Many of the thefts have occurred in the communities of Florence-Graham, Willowbrook and West Rancho Dominguez, as well as eastern Gardena near the 110 Freeway.

Sometimes, thieves have unscrewed bolts to remove hydrants. Other times, they’ve used a vehicle to knock the hydrant loose.

Those targeting the hydrants have often used a shutoff valve before dislodging them. But on several occasions, they’ve left water gushing.

Law enforcement officials and managers of Golden State Water Co. say they believe the hydrants are being taken to recycling centers and sold for scrap metal. The brass in the hydrants is especially in demand.

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https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-06-05/fire-hydrant-thefts-los-angeles-county

The measures the company has taken include welding hydrants to block access to the bolts, Nutting said.

“In some cases, they are very persistent in getting those parts out,” Nutting said.

Crews also have been installing locked steel covers over bolts so they cannot be unscrewed.

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-06-05/fire-hydrant-thefts-los-angeles-county