The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is warning area residents that there has been a significant increase in metal thefts as the value of metal continues to rise.

The most commonly stolen metals include copper, aluminum, brass and bronze.

Thieves are looking for targets of opportunity. Crimes include pulling copper wire out of lamp posts, stealing irrigation systems, cutting pipes, construction supplies left unattended around construction sites, and taking equipment and supplies left exposed or easily accessible.

Theft prevention tips include:

* Secure openings to crawl spaces with a good hasp and padlock
* Don’t store scrap metals outside or within view
* Check around residential and business properties regularly for signs of suspicious activity
* If any suspicious activity is observed, contact local law enforcement immediately
* If possible, build a small chain link fence or cage enclosure around the outside portion of commercial fixtures, and climate control systems

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office celebrates 150 years of proud service and community partnership in 2011. Sheriff Michael Haley is the 24th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County. His office continues to be the only full service public safety agency operating within northern Nevada and is responsible for operating the consolidated detention facility, regional crime lab, Northern Nevada Counter Terrorism Center, Internet Crimes against Children Task Force, court security, service of civil process and traditional street patrols.