Stealing electricity isn't just a crime; it's dangerous and could be deadly. Pennsylvania Power & Light Co. is stepping up its effort to investigate theft cases and prosecute customers who steal electricity.

"Power thieves steal from every paying PP&L customer," explained John R. Menichini, PP&L vice president for Customer Services. "Just as shoplifters drive up the price of store merchandise, power thieves increase the cost of electric service for everyone."

In addition, people who tamper with the electric meter or PP&L equipment to steal electricity risk serious, perhaps fatal, injury from shock, fire or explosion. They also create a hazard for PP&L employees and others.

PP&L employees are trained to look for signs of power theft, Menichini said. The company investigates every suspected case and, when warranted, provides information to state and local police or district attorneys for prosecution.

"We have investigators in every region that we serve," he said. "In 1995, we recovered nearly $250,000 in lost revenue by successfully prosecuting or negotiating settlements in theft cases."

For those still not convinced that stealing electricity is a serious crime, one PP&L customer convicted of power theft last year received a jail sentence, Menichini noted.

PP&L customers can help in the fight against power theft. Anyone who suspects power theft may call PP&L toll-free at 1-800-342-5775 (1-800 DIAL PPL) to provide information. All information will remain confidential.

Signs of power theft include activity around electric meters, especially at night or on weekends; unusual-looking wires connected to or around the electric meter; and someone removing the electric meter or its seal.