RCMP take steps to combat thieves targeting Albertas evacuated communities [Video]

First, Yellowhead County Mayor Wade Williams was worried the hamlet of Peers, Alta., would go up in flames, and then he was alarmed to learn someone had stolen fire equipment.

“It is ridiculous and blows my mind that someone would come here and steal equipment that was laid out to save lives and homes,” Williams said.

Williams said the thief targeted water pumps.

“For anyone who would loot in an evacuated area, we need stiffer penalties.”

The province of Alberta said it is aware of this situation, and notes that it wasn’t aware of any other incidents.

In a statement to Global News, the Alberta government said, “The alleged theft of fire equipment is utterly unacceptable and profoundly alarming, as it directly jeopardizes public safety during a vital period for Albertans while they’re in crisis and places fire personnel in grave unnecessary danger.”

In May, RCMP arrested a man for tampering with sprinklers while the Redwater area …