East Bay Municipal Utility District’s (EBMUD) fleet has been the target of several burglaries this month, all of which happened within a one-week period.

KTVU reported thousands of dollars of equipment stolen as a result of thieves breaking into trucks while they were parked in the EBMUD maintenance yard. Despite heavy security measures, criminals still managed to find a way in.

According to Nelsy Rodriguez, public information representative for EBMUD, the safety of the utility's employees as they work to provide water and wastewater services in Alameda and Contra Costa counties is the highest priority.

"EBMUD works closely with law enforcement to investigate and prosecute anyone who engages in criminal activity in or around our equipment and facilities. When tools are stolen and facilities vandalized, replacement and repair costs must be absorbed by EBMUD and, ultimately, the ratepayers," Rodriguez said. "Anyone who notices any suspicious behavior in or around an EBMUD facility can call us 24 hours a day at 1-866-40-EBMUD (866-403-2683)."

EBMUD currently operates 1,206 units comprised of Class 1-8 vehicles (including 60 hybrid and all-electric models), as well as backhoes, excavators, front loaders, dozers, cranes, forklifts and paving equipment, among others. Vehicles are used in a variety of functions, from transportation of EBMUD employees to complex construction work and support of the utility’s water and wastewater infrastructure.

The utility replaces vehicles every 10-20 years, depending on the unit, how it’s used, service history, and maintenance trends, shared EBMUD.

Several other utility companies, including PG&E, have also reported truck thefts in the past few months.

For tips on safeguarding your fleet and equipment from theft, click on the articles below:

• Preventing Equipment Theft

• How to Protect Your Fleet from Smash-and-Grab Thefts