BC Hydro says wet snow could bring power outages, and that people should be prepared if they experience power loss in winter.
Much of Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast have been experiencing significant snowfall and manager of community relations for BC Hydro Ted Olynyk says if there are outages then they will be serviced as quickly as they can, but there are challenges.
“It’s certainly more challenging than out east,” he says. “It’s easier for us to bring down trees because of the weight.
“In rural areas, if the roads haven’t been plowed, then it can compound the problem with slippery conditions.”
He says it’s especially important in this weather to make sure you’re prepared and cognitive of safety when power goes out in the winter.
“Make sure you have an emergency kit and make sure you know what to do if the power goes out,” he says. “If there is an outage during the cold periods, turn off any appliances that were on before the power went off.”
“This will make it easier for the power to stay on.”
He adds if you spot a down line make sure you stay 10 feet back and call 911.
According to hydro most of the outages have been on the Sunshine Coast, with only a handful on Vancouver Island.
