Kouvola strengthens water tower security with fences, cameras, and alarms

Kouvola’s water utility is upgrading all of the city’s water towers to improve security, according to a report by Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

The measures include installing protective fencing around the towers, adding camera surveillance, and fitting intrusion alarms to deter vandalism and deliberate interference. Structural and technical upgrades, such as renewing concrete frameworks and water tanks, are also part of the renovations.

The Tornionmäki water tower, built in the late 1950s and early 1960s, has just completed its overhaul. Teija Suutari, Kouvola Water’s production and safety manager, said the most visible change is the new security fence surrounding the tower, a feature not previously in place. Cameras and alarm systems have also been activated.

Each tower renovation costs between €1 million and €2 million. Suutari noted that while the sums are substantial, ensuring uninterrupted water distribution and long-term infrastructure reliability justifies the investment.

Two other towers in Kouvola have already been renovated, a third is nearing completion, and three more await final renovation decisions. The upgrades aim to secure water treatment and distribution for decades.

Security at Finnish water utilities came under scrutiny two years ago after a series of break-ins at water facilities prompted nationwide reviews. Unlike some Finnish water towers that include public spaces such as observation decks or cafes, Kouvola’s towers are not open to the public.

Suutari said the lack of public access simplifies security. “If the towers were open to others, I’d have to think much harder about safety. Otherwise, I wouldn’t sleep at night,” she said.