HAWTHORNE STATION- Burglary, Question

Shrouded Lock

Question from Diana:

Your suggestion of locking the gates to the backyard sound good, but one question comes to mind. How then would the meter reader get back there to read the meter?

I checked with the Snohomish County PUD.

You can provide the PUD with a lock or combination to your gate to the back yard. Meter readers also have the capability to read meters remotely. This requires a special meter for a $150 fee.

If you want to use a lock I would recommend a shrouded lock. A shrouded lock prevents a burglar from cutting the shackle. See attached for picture of an example.

Contact the PUD at 425-783-1000 for more information.

Their website also has a statement concerning this situation:
Meter Reading FAQs:
http://www.snopud.com/home/homefaqs/faqmtrread.ashx?p=1285

The PUD is the major electricity provider in Snohomish County. Other utilities, such as for gas (Puget Sound Energy) may have different policies so contact them if you have their meters on your property.