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UK households are being alerted by Ofgem of an unlawful action that could not only be "dangerous" but also results in "one death every 10 days". In a new warning issued today (March 16), the energy watchdog cautioned Brits about the hazards of meter tampering.

It stated: "Tampering with your meter is illegal and could be dangerous. Meter tampering causes one death every 10 days in the UK."

Interfering with a utility meter is against the law. According to Ofgem, some people may attempt to pay less for their gas and electricity by tampering with their meters, which is known as energy theft, reports the Mirror.

It says: "Meter tampering is illegal and dangerous. It can cause property damage, injury or death. Energy theft also costs energy consumers in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) over £1.4 billion a year."

A home meter, also known as a utility meter, is a device installed by energy companies to track how much electricity or gas a home uses. Newer 'smart meters' can automatically send usage information to suppliers and display energy costs in real time. On the other hand, older analogue meters require manual inspection every month.

Ofgem encourages homeowners to be wary of anyone who claims they can reduce their energy bills by altering their meter. There are some typical signs of meter tampering to look out for, including:

• pipes that look out of place
• dials that are not moving or visible
• gas supply with no credit on prepayment meters
• the meter is back to front with no dials showing
• the smell of gas near the meter box
• rubber piping that should be metallic

Common indications of electricity meter tampering include:

• wires sticking out, wrapped around or added with clips
• damaged casing
• electricity supply with no credit on prepayment meters
• a burning smell
• smoke or sparks near the meter

Meddling with meters can cause numerous problems, including damage to property, injuries, or even death. When someone tampers with a gas meter, it can lead to gas leaks, breathing difficulties, fainting, house fires, and explosions from appliances or light switches.

Meddling with electricity meters can result in overheating, meter issues, shocks and burns, electrocution, and house fires. Smart meters typically have security features that can monitor and report any unauthorised interference.

If you are caught, Ofgem warns of fines and potential imprisonment. It states: "Energy theft is a serious crime with severe consequences. Penalties include fines and up to five years in prison."

A person in the UK was previously imprisoned for 15 years for manslaughter related to a gas explosion caused by meter tampering. Darren Greenham, who was incarcerated in October 2022 following the fatal explosion in Heysham, Lancashire.

Greenham's property was obliterated, and neighbouring homes were severely damaged. Two year old George Hinds was killed in his bedroom in the adjacent house.

If you suspect someone has interfered with a meter, you can report it anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers' service, Stay Energy Safe. You can report online or call 0800 023 2777.

If you smell gas, evacuate the property immediately and call emergency services.