WFAA-TV

City workers are trying to keep up with replacing the vanishing warning systems.

Thieves in Fort Worth may be blamed for high water deaths during future flash flooding.

What they're stealing this time is endangering public safety in a very real, very expensive way.

A tranquil, meandering stream can become an angry, racing river in heavy rain.

But near some streams in Fort Worth, there is not a single notice in sight.

In recent months, thieves have stolen warning signs and equipment from high water danger spots across Fort Worth - all for their not-so-precious metal.

Authorities say the warning signs fetch only a few dollars at a local recycling yard but they cost citizens a bundle in other ways.

City workers are trying to keep up with replacing the vanishing warning systems.

But each - with flashing lights, billboards, or an automatic crossing bar - can cost about $5,000.

Not to mention the priceless potential loss on the road.

"When folks steal this, it endangers people's lives and it causes problems for everybody," said Joe Komisarz from storm management.

That includes the thieves who may one day find themselves wondering why there was no sign to warn of rising danger.